Automotive

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Over the past few years, the automotive sector has undergone significant transformations as a result of rapid technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, and increasing concerns about the environment.   Modern internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles have made significant strides in reducing exhaust emissions, whilst very stringent government regulations and emissions standards worldwide, such as the Euro 6 standards in Europe and the US EPA Tier 3 standards in the United States, have pushed automakers to develop cleaner and more fuel-efficient vehicles. 

Advancements in engine design, fuel injection systems, particulate filters, and exhaust aftertreatment technologies have contributed to lower emissions of harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter (PM).

Catalytic converters, for example, have become standard in ICE vehicles, transforming harmful pollutants into less harmful substances before they are released into the atmosphere. Innovations in gasoline direct injection (GDI) systems and turbocharging technologies have improved engine efficiency, leading to reduced fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions.

The shift from ICEs to electric vehicles (EVs) has accelerated, driven by concerns about climate change, stricter emissions regulations, and advancements in battery technology. Major automakers have announced ambitious plans to introduce new EV models and gradually phase out ICE vehicles.

However, the automotive sector will continue to remain an important contributor to air pollution and noise emissions even with powertrain electrification. While much attention has been focused on the impact of tailpipe emissions from vehicles, non-exhaust emissions from vehicles are also a significant contributor to air pollution - and EV's are heavier than their ICE equivalents. These non-exhaust emissions include tyre wear, brake wear, road surface wear and the resuspension of road dust. 

Dr William Hicks (Director, Atmospheric Quality) has conducted extensive research into traffic emissions from automotive vehicles and the impact of powertrain electrification on urban air quality. Our services include a variety of automotive research and consulting activities, including real-world measurements and modelling, literature reviews, and data analysis.  We work with automotive companies to identify and reduce emissions from vehicle operational processes, emissions from testing, and traffic-related noise and air pollution, and can develop strategies to mitigate negative impacts in the real-world.