Briefing: Potential CO2 reduction from optimal engine sizing for light commercial vehicles

In October 2009, the European Commission proposed the introduction of legally-binding CO2 standards for light commercial vehicles (vans) following similar legislation for cars adopted in December 2008. It is part of the EU’s efforts to cut CO2 emissions, reduce oil dependence, and cut fuel bills for companies.

The debate on this legislation and the underlying studies, including the Commission’s impact assessment are biased, in the sense that they only look at advanced technologies as a way to cut emissions and to save fuel. More advanced technologies cost time and money to develop.

For that reason, Transport & Environment asked TNO and CE Delft to investigate a forgotten, but quick and cheap way to reduce fuel use and CO2 emissions, namely ‘optimal engine sizing’. This missing link in the debate means offering vans with smaller and less powerful engines. It does not require vehicle redesign, can be offered quickly and would make vans cheaper to buy and more efficient to run.