Detected or not? Remote sensing measurements from the latest Euro 6d vehicles across Europe.
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Incorporating real-driving emission tests into type approval procedures has significantly reduced emissions from diesel passenger cars. Recent remote sensing studies suggest that NO x emissions from the latest Euro 6d series (including both Euro 6d-TEMP and Euro 6d) are extremely low, in some cases approaching zero. This study investigates whether these low NO x concentrations fall below the detection limits of remote sensing devices, potentially limiting the reliability of measured values. A method is proposed to estimate the limit of detection using electric vehicle measurements, which serve as low-emission references in the absence of calibration gases. NO x data from six recent European remote sensing campaigns (2021–2023) were analyzed. The findings suggest that NO x emissions from the latest Euro 6d series vehicles that are in good working order have reached the detection limit of OPUS RSD 5000 devices. This approach presents a practical framework for routinely determining the detection limits of remote sensing devices, improving quality assurance procedures and supporting the interpretation of ultra-low NO x emission measurements with greater confidence. • A new practical approach to estimate remote sensing detection limits using ULEV data. • Euro 6d NO x emissions often fall below current remote sensing detection thresholds. • First cross-campaign analysis of recent EU remote sensing vehicle emission databases. • Supports EU Roadworthiness Package through improved remote sensing quality control.
Authors: Zhuoqian Yang, Christopher Rushton, James Tate
Institutions: Southwest Jiaotong University, University of Leeds
Language: English
Subfield: Automotive Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,750
Award: G3793317745
OpenAlex ID: W4415595653