Emission Analysis of Diesel Vehicles in Circumstances of Emission Regulation System Failure: A Case Study

Despite the development of other propulsion systems, the internal combustion engines will continue to be an essential element of vehicle propulsion on the road, as the sole source of propulsion or in the hybrid drives. The main challenge for the regulatory bodies is to find suitable strategies to ensure the lowest possible impact on the environment, for new and in use vehicles. This research gives an insight into the issue related to the disproportion of exhaust emissions of diesel-powered vehicles under the conditions of real, in use, vehicle operation with respect to the approved values. Emissions measurements were performed on six different passenger vehicles homologated according to Euro emission standards, with correct and faulty emission control systems. The results obtained show significant increases in defective vehicle’s NO_x emissions from 58.2% for Euro 5 vehicles to 78.2% for Euro 4 vehicles and increases of 86% and 227%, respectively, compared to the approved values with Conformity Factor 2.1, CO emissions are increased in the fault case from 197% for Euro 3 to 780% for Euro 5. A guideline is given for the emission control system with respect to its accuracy. The brief analysis of the hybrid powertrain was also elaborated as a future replacement for conventional ICE units, contributing greatly to a cleaner environment. The proposed novel hybrid energy management strategy which included only regenerative braking has given a promising result; NO_x emissions are reduced by 45%, consumption and CO₂ emissions by 44% and CO emissions by 31%.