UK’s first Real Driving Emissions test centre opens in Northampton

Coming into force in September 2019, the Real Driving Emissions (RDE) test will put new vehicles through their paces on public roads in a variety of real-life conditions. Alongside the lab-based WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure), RDE was formulated in response to the diesel-gate scandal where Volkswagen and other manufacturers were found to be gaming existing emissions tests.

The new centre, built by MAHLE Powertrain, will use a new 4WD chassis dyno to simulate real-world conditions. According to the new rules, all vehicles certified for sale in the UK from September 1, 2019, must be able to meet emissions targets on multiple road types, with various payloads and across a range of altitude and weather conditions. The technology employed by the centre will be able to simulate virtually any real-world driving scenario.

“SMMT is delighted to see MAHLE Powertrain open the UK‘s first dedicated RDE test facility,” said Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive. “Together with the WLTP lab test, RDE is part of the toughest emissions testing regime in the world. It provides clear evidence that the automotive industry is delivering on its commitment to cleaning up our air while providing motorists with more realistic emissions and fuel consumption information.”