Emission testing also saves fuel
Vehicle emissions tests to reduce the environmental impact of car exhaust fumes can also be re-purposed to examine fuel consumption and improve vehicle fuel efficiency, according to experts.
Emissions tests centres run by Drivegreen issue an Estimated Fuel Efficiency Report with each emissions test, providing motorists with a useful guide to how much fuel a vehicle wastes, and identifying how they can reduce the amount wasted. Up to 25 per cnt of the fuel energy output is wasted, but simple maintenance programmes, like the regular cleaning of air and oil filters, can reduce fuel consumption significantly, the company said in a media release.
Widespread emissions testing and regular maintenance can reduce the country’s overall fuel consumption, which will also reduce overall emissions further. Efficient vehicles with better fuel mileage burn less fuel for the same power, directly reducing the exhaust gases emitted. Similarly other measures to get better mileage such as improving AC and lights efficiency, keeping tires properly inflated, and using the correct mo- tor oil grade, all lower emissions as well, it said.
A report released last year by the WHO showed that chemicals and particle matter released in exhaust gas adversely affect health, leading to respiratory and circulatory disorders.
Numerous studies have highlighted that air pollution contributes to global warming and harms local ecosystems. Despite an increase in the number of vehicles in Sri Lanka, total emissions have remained stagnant. This is attributed in part to mandatory annual emissions tests required of all motorists, and the roadside emissions tests which monitor emissions on an ongoing basis, the release added.
The harmful substances of exhaust gas are carbon monoxide from incomplete combustion, hydrocarbons from unburnt fuel, nitrogen oxides from excessive temperature and pressure, and particulate matter. Emissions test show how much of these chemicals a car produces and how it can be reduced. Carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides in vehicle exhaust are also recognised as contributors to climate change.