Already last year, the European Commission ordered a shift from NEDC to WLTP combustion cycle testing. The changes came into force on September 1, 2018. Drivers' representatives, including NAF, fear that the new requirements will increase the price of new cars. It is estimated that it may amount to 20 thousand. up to 80 thousand Norwegian kroner.
NEDC has ceased to meet expectations
NEDC stands for New European Driving License, which was last updated in 1997. Its task was to define the standards for testing new vehicle models, the result of which is to determine the average fuel consumption and emission of harmful substances. However, car manufacturers quickly began producing engines that performed well under test conditions, but did not necessarily translate into results in daily use. As a result, in 2006 the differences between the daily operation and the test results amounted to 15%. In 2015, this difference reached 42%, which meant that the NEDC no longer meets the original assumptions.
WLTP - new requirements
WLTP stands for World Harmonized Light Wehicle Test Procedure. This standard has brought about many changes that are beneficial from the customer's point of view. First of all, the tests take place at a temperature of 13 degrees Celsius, which is more consistent with real conditions (NEDC provided for tests at 20-30 degrees, while in Europe the average temperature is 12 degrees - ed.). In addition, various equipment configuration options are taken into account, the duration of the test and the average speed with which the car moves during them also changed (WLTP is a 30-minute test on 23 kilometers, while NEDC - 20 minutes on 11 kilometers.
Consequences of changes
Car manufacturers are sounding the alarm - in their opinion, testing the WLTP combustion cycle requires greater investment on their part, which will have an impact on the prices of new cars. The average increase will be from 20 thousand. up to 80 thousand NOK. For some models, it may be even more expensive, e.g. the new Volvo XC90 T8 model is expected to be 110 more expensive. NOK. These are significant increases.
NAF demands a government proposal
NAF (Norwegian Automobile Federation) looks forward to entering the WLTP. At the same time, it demands specific proposals from the Norwegian government to prevent a sharp increase in the price of new cars. As indicated, Denmark, Finland and Sweden have announced that they will participate in the additional costs of the WLTP combustion cycle tests. In Norway, this topic has not been addressed as yet and NAF is concerned that all of the additional costs will be passed on to consumers.
More expensive cars from January?
As NAF's Nils Sødal told Broom, the entry into force of the WLTP could mean significant increases in new car prices starting in January. Therefore, the NAF has clear-cut demands on the Norwegian government. The federation appeals to the authorities to take a look at the solutions of other Nordic countries and, following in their footsteps, contribute to the additional costs. Otherwise, consumers will feel the financial consequences of these changes.
NAF calls: check the contracts
Nils Sødal also cautions buyers who have already signed a deal to buy a car from the showroom but have not yet received it. In his opinion, it is worth reviewing the signed contract and staying in good contact with the seller. This will help to avoid an unexpected increase in the final price that will be paid for the delivery of a new car.
