Milestone brings RDE testing one step closer for the UK

HORIBA has supplied a complete suite of emissions testing technology, comprising its MEXA-ONE and CVS-ONE systems, together with a STARS-VETS test automation system to interface and execute emissions tests. The equipment enables MAHLE to test a vehicle’s conformity to the new Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), measuring both fuel economy and emissions values.

From its new RDE Centre, MAHLE can simulate real world driving styles, testing vehicle emissions at high speeds and loads, with aggressive acceleration and braking. To facilitate testing in these conditions, HORIBA has added special boost pumps to the analyser sampling system, which allows sampling from vehicles at high altitudes.

Derek Wise, Chief Engineer (test and build) at MAHLE Powertrain commented: “Delivery of specialist emissions testing equipment from HORIBA represents an important milestone in the development of our new RDE Centre. MAHLE has enjoyed a healthy relationship with HORIBA for several years and recognises their testing technology to be world-leading.

“The RDE Centre is really starting to take shape, with our specialist altitude and climatic control system and 4WD chassis dynamometer already on site. Once all installations are completed, the centre will position us at the forefront of real driving emissions testing, right here in the UK.”

Ana Anyaeji, HORIBA UK Product Specialist, added: “Our relationship with MAHLE Powertrain is one of close collaboration and it’s very exciting to be supplying them with this wealth of equipment for such an advanced test facility. We’re also looking forward to the next phase of the project, which will be the commissioning of the test equipment using vehicles under simulated loading, temperature and altitude conditions.”