What is Euro 6?

Since its introduction in 2015, Euro 6 standards have had a big impact on the automotive industry for buyers and sellers alike. But that being said, many are still in the dark about what these standards actually are and what they mean for the individual. Throughout this post, we will explore the in’s and out’s of the sixth incarnation of the European unions directive aimed at reducing the level of harmful pollutants from vehicle exhausts. These pollutants include nitrogen oxide (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (THC and NMHC) and particulate matter (PM), which is basically soot from diesel cars. The knock-on effect of reducing these pollutants can also mean improved fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions.

How are new cars tested for emissions?

The procedure is conducted in a controlled environment, and tests are witnessed by Government agencies. The ambient temperature, vehicle fluid levels and tyre pressures are all measured to maintain consistency between tests of different models, and this ensures the test is as accurate as possible. The cars that are chosen for the test are randomly selected from the production lines by the legislative body. That means the manufacturer can’t supply a specially ‘tweaked’ model that could be optimised to produce favourable results.

Petrol & Diesel Euro 6

Euro 6 regulations set different emissions standards for petrol and diesel cars, but that is a reflection of the different kinds of pollutants the two fuels produce. For diesels, the permitted level of NOx emitted has dramatically dropped to a maximum of 80mg/km, compared to the 180mg/km level that was required for cars that met the previous Euro 5 emissions standard. In contrast, the NOx limit for petrol cars remained unchanged from Euro 5, as it was already low at 60mg/km.

ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zones) and the costs associated

The ULEZ (Ultra Low Emissions Zone) in London is a levy for drivers of the highest polluting vehicles in central London. It covers the same area as London’s Congestion Charge Zone, but it will expand to cover all areas inside the North and South Circular from 26 October 2021. The vehicles that are affected by ULEZ are generally pre-Euro 6 diesels (ones built before around 2016) and pre-Euro 4 petrols (built before around 2006). The standard daily ULEZ rate is £12.50 – coupled with the also compulsory Congestion Charge of £11.50, the total cost of some vehicles to enter the centre of London will be up to £24.