Loopholes for ageing hybrids

Wynn-Williams, Michael (2011) Loopholes for ageing hybrids. AutomotiveWorld.

Abstract

It is well recognised that hybrid cars take us a stop closer to the holy grail of green motoring. They represent a milestone on the road to the ecological perfection of sustainable electric power. Even if in normal driving conditions they do not quite achieve the impressive emissions recorded during manufacturers’ tests, technically they do at least deliver an acceptable compromise. It is on this basis that they are permitted a number of financial benefits, including lower taxation. Yet as these vehicle age and their engines suffer the usual wear and tear, their emissions will inevitably rise. For conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles there are in-service roadworthiness inspections to catch the worst offenders, but hybrids can often evade these routine emissions checks. Indeed, far from taking us towards a world of pure, clean air, the more venerable hybrids may be leading us in the wrong direction.

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