WLTP - 5 questions
WLTP, a new method for measuring consumption, has been heading towards the automotive industry since September 2017. Besides more realistic consumption values, the new standard promises a globally uniform and thus comparable method of measurement. But what does the change mean for your fleet – and what is the actual timetable? We've summarised the most important questions regarding this subject for you:
What is WLTP?
WLTP is short for ‘Worldwide Harmonized Light-Duty Vehicle Test Procedure’ and is a globally harmonised test procedure for cars and light commercial vehicles that is to be used to measure fuel consumption as well as emissions of CO2 and pollutants. Compared to the current NEDC method, WLTP is even more closely based on everyday driving behaviour and reflects a vehicle's daily consumption even more realistically. For instance, besides different model versions and weight classes, WLTP also takes various traffic situations and speeds into account. The results themselves are included in the COC paper.
Where is WLTP being implemented?
The new WLTP standard will be implemented in the 28 EU countries as well as in Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Turkey. The new testing procedure has also come into effect in other countries outside Europe, including Japan, China and Australia.
When will the changeover to WLTP be taking place?
While WLTP was introduced for new vehicle types on 1 September 2017, all newly registered vehicles must also be certified in compliance with WLTP from 1 September 2018. In the case of lightweight commercial vehicles, WLTP will come into effect a year later. Vehicles that have already been registered won't be affected by the switch.
What's going to change for my fleet?
It will in future be even easier to estimate a vehicle's actual fuel consumption, which will be reflected in higher fuel consumption and emission values. Depending on national legislation, this may also affect the CO2-related taxes and thus the overall costs of a vehicle. The differences will, however, vary depending on the make and model.
It's therefore advisable that companies adjust any CO2 caps they have defined in their car policies to the new values. But it's not possible to clearly quantify the concrete effect of WLTP on CO2 emissions as yet. That's why we're advising companies to delay adapting their fleet policy until the new testing standard has been fully implemented.
How can ALD Automotive assist me?
In addition to providing advice about alternative types of motor to reduce your CO2 footprint, we'd also be happy to assist you in the design and adaptation of your car policy.