Navigating the world of vehicle emissions standards can be complex, but at Audi Ireland, we believe in transparency and providing our customers with clear, accurate information. It’s important to understand the standards that govern fuel consumption and emission data for all vehicles, including your Audi in Ireland. This article explains the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) and the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), and what they mean for you.
Since September 1st, 2017, the automotive industry has been transitioning to the WLTP, a globally harmonized standard that offers a more realistic assessment of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to the older NEDC standard. The NEDC was replaced in stages starting September 1st, 2018. Because WLTP employs more stringent and real-world oriented testing conditions, you’ll typically find that fuel consumption and CO2 emission figures measured under WLTP are higher than those previously reported under NEDC. This shift is crucial for vehicle taxation from September 1st, 2018, onwards, as CO2 emission values measured according to WLTP are now used, potentially affecting vehicle taxation in Ireland. For a deeper dive into the differences between WLTP and NEDC, please visit www.audi.de/wltp or https://www.audi.ie/en/wltp-lp/.
Legally, we are still required to provide NEDC figures. For new vehicles approved under WLTP, the NEDC figures are derived from the WLTP data. While WLTP figures may be provided voluntarily in addition to NEDC, it’s important to note that NEDC figures, especially when presented as ranges, are for comparison purposes only between different vehicle models. They do not represent the fuel consumption of a specific, individual vehicle and are not part of a sales offer.
Keep in mind that various factors can influence real-world fuel consumption, electrical power consumption, CO2 emissions, and overall vehicle performance. These include optional equipment and accessories such as add-on parts and different tire formats, which can alter vehicle parameters like weight, rolling resistance, and aerodynamics. External factors like weather, traffic conditions, and your individual driving style also play a significant role.
For comprehensive and official data on fuel consumption and specific CO₂ emissions of new passenger cars, refer to the guide “Information on the fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions and electricity consumption of new cars.” This guide is available free of charge at all Audi Ireland dealerships and from DAT Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (www.dat.de).
At Audi Ireland, we are committed to providing you with the most accurate and up-to-date information to help you make informed decisions. Understanding these emission standards ensures you have a clear picture of your Audi’s performance and environmental impact.
