The importance of hybrid vehicles in urban traffic in terms of environmental impact

Abstract

Many large cities in Europe are currently trying to reduce the amount of harmful substances for the residents. Road transport is also an important source of air pollution. One way to reduce pollutant production is to operate more environmentally friendly vehicles. The paper analyses data obtained during practical tests of a hybrid vehicle in urban traffic. The individual components of the exhaust gases are calculated in g/km and they are compared with the values for conventional vehicle propulsion. The data was obtained through a commercially available exhaust gas analyzer and a calculated amount of emissions produced from available data from the engine control unit. The results shown that using of this type of propulsion has its importance in cities with increased air pollution. During urban operation, the hybrid-powered vehicle was powered by an electric engine up to 67.70 % (75.40 % of the time). As a result of operating such a vehicle in the city, emissions of CO2, HC and NOx are significantly lower.