New Car Fuel Consumption & Emission Figures
This page was last updated on 29th November 2024- New Car Fuel Consumption & Emission Figures Overview
- Cars and Emissions
- Cars and Noise
- Zero and Ultra Low Emission Vehicles (ZEVs/ULEVs)
- Tyre Labelling
- Air Quality
- Fuel efficient driving tips
- Cars and Fuel options
- How to use the data
- Responsibilities of vehicle manufacturers, importers and dealers
- New Car Fuel Consumption & Emission Figures - Frequently Asked Questions
- Useful links
- General points
- Fuel cost
- Annex
Cars and Noise
The external noise emitted by passenger cars has been controlled since 1929 when the Motor Cars (Excessive Noise) regulations were introduced. New cars are now required to meet Europe-wide noise limits. These have been progressively reduced from 82 decibels (dB (A)) in 1978 to the current limit of 72 dB (A) established in 2016.
Information on the level of noise recorded for new models of cars at their type approval test is listed in the data tables which can be found at https://carfueldata.vehicle-certification-agency.gov.uk/
When looking at this information please note that off-road vehicles are allowed to be 1dB (A) louder and wheelchair accessible vehicles or armoured vehicles are allowed to be 2 dB (A) louder.
The noise levels quoted above are the maximum levels that are permitted for new vehicle types. Many vehicles produce lower levels of noise, and it is illegal to modify the exhaust system of a vehicle to make it noisier than the level recorded for that model at type approval.
EU regulation was introduced from July 2016. Regulation (EU) No 540/2014, that phases in tighter noise limits over 10 years, together with a revised, more representative test procedure. By 2026 the limit for most new passenger cars will be 68 dB(A).
