The Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP)
This page was last updated on 1st April 2021The Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) replaced the NEDC test procedure for establishing the official Fuel Consumption and CO2 emissions of new cars in September 2017, which became mandatory for all new cars (powered by an Internal Combustion Engine) by September 2018.
What difference does WLTP make?
The new testing regime aims to provide a closer representation of ‘real-world’ fuel consumption and CO2 figures and provide model specific values at the point of sale. It differs from the previous process in a number of ways, although all tests will continue to be conducted in a laboratory allowing meaningful comparisons between cars to be made. One of the obvious differences is the structure of the data resulting from the new test. For petrol / diesel cars for example, the terms used to describe test cycle driving phases: “urban”, “extra-urban” and “combined”, is no longer be used.
In their place, the data is being expressed as “Low”, “Medium”, “High”, “Extra-high” and “Combined”. Currently, the New Car Fuel Consumption database (https://carfueldata.vehicle-certification-agency.gov.uk/) shows WLTP results for Fuel Consumption.
Further information
You can read more about WLTP in a number of places on-line.
These include sites published by the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) : http://wltpfacts.eu/what-is-wltp-how-will-it-work/ (page opens in a new window);
and The Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership (LowCVP) http://www.lowcvp.org.uk/initiatives/fuel-economy/wltp.htm (page opens in a new window).
A review into the impact of the Worldwide harmonised Light vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) on Vehicle Excise Duty and company car tax can also be found on the GOV.UK website – https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/review-of-wltp-and-vehicle-taxes (page opens in a new window).
Important notes
It should be noted that fuel consumption figures quoted under WLTP are obtained under specific test conditions. While WLTP data is a closer representation of the figures (than were previously obtained under NEDC) you are likely to achieve in the real-world, there are many variations in driving styles; vehicle accessories and additional weight carried that will affect fuel consumption that you actually achieve.” The figures do however, serve as a means of comparing models of a similar type. Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the data provided is accurate, the Vehicle Certification Agency cannot accept liability for any inaccuracies. Visitors who rely on the information do so at their own risk
Further terms and conditions can be found here: https://www.vehicle-certification-agency.gov.uk/fcb/fuel-consumption-and-co2-tools-disclaimer.asp
Please note that VCA has no control over the content or accuracy of other websites, nor should it be inferred that endorsement of any third-party web-sites listed here or elsewhere applies.
