Speed Limits, Effects and Benefits in Terms of Energy Efficiency And Reduction Of Emissions
article
The driving speed of a car influences the fuel consumption and emission of air-polluting substances. On 1 May 1988, a system of differentiated speed limits for passenger cars and light duty vehicles on motorways was introduced in the Netherlands, among other things for the purpose of reducing environmental pollution. On particular sections of the Dutch motorways a limit of 100 km/h is in force, on the rest one of 120 km/h. (Lorries 80 km/h on all motorways). Prior to and after introduction of the new system of speed limits the fuel consumption and the NO<sub>x</sub>, CO, CO<sub>2</sub> and hydrocarbon emissions from passenger cars and lorries on motorways have been calculated based on the actual driving speeds on both types of road sections. The emission behaviour at different vehicle speeds has been derived from field tests on roller-type test stands in combination with measurements on German motorways under actual driving conditions. After an initial sharp decrease in driving speed after 1 May 1988, resulting in lower fuel consumption and emissions, the speeds have slowly increased again, with the result that benefits have largely disappeared already.
TNO Identifier
409867
ISSN
01661116
Source
Studies in Environmental Science, 45(C), pp. 261-270.
Publisher
Elsevier
Pages
261-270
Files
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