NEDCtesttsükleid

NEDCtesttsükleid, or the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), is a laboratory driving cycle used in Europe to estimate fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. It was developed to provide a standardized method for vehicle type approval and labeling, and is conducted on a chassis dynamometer under controlled environmental conditions. The resulting fuel and emissions figures are used for official vehicle ratings, taxes, and regulatory compliance.

The NEDC consists of two sequential cycles: an urban cycle and an extra-urban cycle. The urban portion simulates city driving with frequent stops and lower speeds, while the extra-urban portion represents higher-speed driving on open roads. The combined cycle covers roughly 11 kilometers and lasts about 20 minutes, using predefined speed and acceleration profiles to mimic typical driving patterns. Measurements focus on fuel consumption and CO2 emissions derived from the vehicle’s fuel use during the test.

From its introduction, the NEDC served as a harmonized basis for comparing vehicles across European markets. However, it has been criticized for not reflecting real-world driving conditions, often producing optimistic fuel economy and emission figures. Critics point to its relatively gentle accelerations, limited high-speed testing, and minimal consideration of driving aids and accessories such as air conditioning. In response, European regulations moved toward more realistic testing.

Since the late 2010s, the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) has largely replaced the NEDC for new car type approvals in Europe, offering cycles that better reflect real-world driving. Some vintage or transitional references may still cite NEDC values, but WLTP provides the current standard for official labeling and regulatory assessments.