WLTP Explained

byAshlyn Oswalt/May 21, 2021/inVehicle News

The standard to measure fuel consumption CO₂ emissions, and range is WLTP, or Worldwide Hamonized Light-Duty Test Procedure.

The WLTP measures vehicles in realistic driving situations and is mandatory to all manufacturers. The test replaces the antiquated NEDC test and helps consumers make informed decisions about their vehicle purchases.

> Why Have We Moved Away from the NEDC?

The NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) has long been criticised as unrealistic by specialists and the public. The test is a simulator of perfect conditions on European roads set in a laboratory, which makes it wholly inaccurate in real-life driving situations.

Difficult to replicate, not taking optional equipment and accessories into account, and not representing different driving dynamics, the test was outdated. Developed in the 1980s, the test was only designed to test petrol vehicles but had been used to evaluate diesel cars, hybrids, and all-electric vehicles.

With an increasing demand for a more realistic measure of CO₂ emissions, range, and fuel consumption, the WLTP was developed.

> Why the WLTP?

The WLTP delivers consumption and CO2 emission figures that are similar to real-life driving. The driving cycle for testing is faster, longer, and more dynamic, plus considers optional accessories such as bigger wheels, spoilers, and 4WD.

Day-to-day driving is simulated in the WLTP, and every model with every variant is taken into consideration, anywhere in the world. Speed, duration, and distance are the core attributes of the procedure, but driving dynamics such as braking, stop times, and acceleration phases are also considered. Instead of the same factory settings, different road types, varying temperatures, and gearshifts are tested.

Check out the graph to see the breakdown of comparisons between NEDC and WLTP.

> How Does This Affect Me?

Short answer – it won’t affect your current vehicle or your car buying experience.

The long answer is it will provide you an accurate measurement of emissions, fuel consumption, and range when you look into purchasing a new vehicle, which could sway your decision.

Keep in mind that the WLTP numbers are typically higher than their NEDC counterparts, but this is because they are more accurate. The numbers are especially relevant when shopping for an EV (electric vehicle), as they are providing a realistic expectation for each vehicle’s range.