Analysis of the Impact of the Comfort Systems in Sport Utility Vehicles on the Exhaust Emissions Measured under Worldwide Harmonized Light vehicles Test Cycles Conditions
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1
Poznan University of Technology, ul. Piotrowo 3,
60-695 Poznan, Poland
2
Faculty of Cosmetology, University of Education and Therapy, Grabowa 22, 61‐473 Poznan, Poland
Corresponding author
Maciej Siedlecki
Poznan University of Technology, ul. Piotrowo 3,
60-695 Poznan, Poland
J. Ecol. Eng. 2024; 25(12)
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ABSTRACT
This study investigates the impact of comfort systems in Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) on ex-haust emissions and fuel consumption under the Worldwide harmonized Light vehicles Test Cycle (WLTC) conditions. Two modern SUVs equipped with gasoline engines of 3.6 and 2.0 li-ters were tested, both featuring various comfort systems such as automatic climate control, heated seats, and active safety systems. Measurements were conducted using a chassis dyna-mometer under three operating modes: with comfort systems off, with comfort systems on, and with comfort systems on in sport mode. The results indicate that the activation of comfort sys-tems leads to significant increases in fuel consumption and emissions, including hydrocarbons (up to 29%), carbon monoxide (up to 42%), and particulate matter (up to 58%). The study high-lights the necessity for further research on the influence of comfort systems on vehicle emis-sions, particularly as these systems become more prevalent in modern vehicles. Additionally, the research underscores the potential for increased operational costs and environmental impact due to enhanced vehicle comfort features.