Speciation of Hydrocarbon Emissions from European Vehicles

Three European vehicles, one fitted with a three-way catalyst (TWC), were tested using a typical European gasoline (95 RON) and a first generation reformulated gasoline produced for the Californian market (ARCO EC-P) over the US Federal Test Procedure (FTP). Regulated emissions and hydrocarbon speciation samples were taken throughout, with particular emphasis being placed on photochemically important or toxic compounds. Results were compared to current and older US gasoline vehicle technology and a European diesel model with oxidation catalyst.

The EC-P fuel showed consistent advantages over the 95 RON fuel for regulated emissions and benzene. However, emissions of formaldehyde and 1,3-butadiene were increased with EC-P.

Emissions were substantially reduced by the catalyst on the European gasoline vehicle. Catalyst effects were also apparent on the diesel vehicle. Indeed for many emissions, the diesel vehicle with oxidation catalyst produced the lowest levels.