Euro Emissions Standards Explained

Exhaust pollution limits, the Euro Emission Standards aim is to improve air quality by reducing carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), hydrocarbons (HC) and particulate matter (PM).

With the need to improve air quality the European Union set new regulations.

These regulations were introduced in 1970.  In 1992 the Euro 1 standard was introduced where catalytic convertors were fitted in petrol cars to reduce carbon monoxide (CO) emissions and the move was made to unleaded petrol. 

Euro 2 introduced different emissions limits for petrol and diesel vehicles.

There have been several rating changes since then and the current rating is the Euro 6 which was first introduced in September 2014.

In producing the energy they need to run engines burn fuel to produce this energy and with this comes some emissions that are harmful to both people and the environment.

It is important to know what Euro rating your van has as there are an increasing number of fines and leivies that have been introduced for older vans.

The Government has an "air quality plan" and are asking for local action to achieve improvements in air quality.

This 'local action' is to target areas where air quality is poorest such as built-up towns and cities.  Local authorities will have 'clean air zones' where either charges or restrictions to these areas will exist at certain times of day.

From October 23rd 2017 drivers need to know the Euro emissions standard if driving through London as there is a London T-Charge in place to help to reduce vehicle emissions. Below are two handy links that explain further the London T-charge.

http://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/emissions-surcharge

https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/emissions-surcharge/emissions-surcharge-checker

The current standard is the Euro 6, where the permitted level of nitrogen oxides (NOx) has been dropped from 0.18g/km in Euro 5 to 0.08g/km.

The focus on diesel NOx is a result of research connecting these emissions with respiritory problems.

Brexit will not alter these emissions standards as they will remain in place and are expected to be unchanged.

Here at Cheshire Vehicle Supplies we check all our vehicles Euro emissions standard, if you would like to check yours here's a handly link to check the Euro emissions standard for your vehicle.

https://www.hpi.co.uk/content/diesel-news-the-future-of-diesel/hpi-euro-emission-standards-checker/