In addition, the implementation of Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology in diesel engines used in road, rail and water transport – as well as the development of hybrid diesel-electric engines for freight transport – are important, recent technological developments aimed at diminishing air pollutants;
Transport technology developments target several areas. Most relevant improvements concern the propulsion, design and operations. To reduce CO2 emissions and costs, alternative power strategies are sought for road vehicles such as electric, hybrid and hydrogen propulsion. Improvements in design (e.g. transmission, lubricants, bearings, etc.) will lead to further fuel savings, while certain countries are testing longer and/or heavier vehicles (LHV);
In rail transport, innovations focus on optimised diesel and electric engines, in combination with weight reduction, standardisation of load capacities, improved aerodynamics, regenerative breaking systems and longer trains. To allow for this, the infrastructure needs to be improved to create an extended and efficient network that can accommodate increased train lengths, increased axle loads and (semi-) dedicated freight rail lines.
Legal basis:
Regulation EU 136/201485 amending Directive 2007/46/EC, Regulation (EC) 692/200886 as regards emissions from light passenger and commercial vehicles (Euro 5 and Euro 6) and Regulation EU 582/201187 as regards emissions from heavy duty vehicles (Euro VI). As it bases on several directives and regulations, which establish a framework for motor vehicles, trailers and their systems/components/technical units concerning type-approval documents and outlines engine characteristics, engine power values as well as power related characteristics. It further defines common technical requirements for the type-approval of motor vehicles in respect to emissions, laying down rules for in-service conformity, durability of pollution control devices, on-board diagnostic (OBD) systems, measurement of fuel consumption, etc.;
Regulation (EC) No 595/200988 (cf. Transport-related emissions and climate change (Type approval of EURO VI heavy duty vehicles)).
Relevance for the logistic market:
The developments are of relevance for the logistic sector because of, on the one hand, an increase of costs and on the other hand, a reduction of emissions and energy dependency;