Abstract
NOx emissions from diesel cars and light duty vehicles are important to regulate because of their significant health and environmental damages. Many factors can influence vehicle-related NOx emissions, but limited studies have explored NOx emissions as a function of altitude. In this study, we report on the NOx emission rate from diesel cars when driven in altitudes of about 1,500 m above sea level. Specifically, we analyze data from remote emission-sensing campaigns at three locations and altitudes in Switzerland (Davos, Zurich, and Basel). We control factors such as emission standard, engine load, ambient temperature, humidity, and manufacturer to investigate relationship between NOx emission and altitude. We find the NOx emission rate increases by a factor two or more as measured at Davos, about 1,500 m above sea level, compared with the other two low-altitude locations. We discuss potential policy implications and recommend including this effect in emission factor models and traffic emission inventories.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Article number | 103573 |
| Journal | Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment |
| Volume | 115 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Feb 2023 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Funding
This study received financial support from the Amt für Natur und Umwelt of the Canton Graubünden and the Amt für Abfall, Wasser, Energie und Luft of the Canton Zurich. The remote sensing measurements were financed and conducted by the Swiss Cantons of Zurich, Graubünden und both Basel. Their offices provided the data. We gratefully acknowledge discussions with Hanspeter Lötscher as well as Gian-Marco Alt and Jörg Sintermann.
Keywords
- Diesel car
- In situ remote emission sensing
- In-use surveillance
