Global Comparison: Light-duty Emissions

Numerous regions around the world have developed and implemented regulations to limit the emissions from light-duty motor vehicles. Most countries follow the European precedent for emission standards, with modified timelines according to local conditions. Some regions also follow the United States' precedent.

Map
The following map summarizes the LDV emission standards currently in force (2014) for selected regions around the world. Note that this map displays national-level regulations only; a number of countries, including China and India, have implemented more stringent standards at the sub-national level.



Timelines
Nationwide * adoption timelines for selected regions are shown in the following table.

 *China and India have implemented more stringent standards in some cities and regions on an accelerated timeframe; for more detailed information see the China: Light-duty: Emissions and India: Light-duty: Emissions pages.

Limit Values
The following figures show a comparison of selected limit values over time for the EU and the US. For the figures below, note that emission limits for the US and the EU are not directly comparable because the limits are set under different vehicle emissions test cycles. EU emission standards are based on the Urban (ECE) plus Extra-Urban Driving Cycle (EUDC), while the US emission standards are based on the (Federal Test Procedure (FTP)). Both test cycles differ in test length, duration, max speed and acceleration, average speed, and percentage of time idling.

Emission Limits for Gasoline Powered LDVs, NOx, and NMHC in the US (Light‑duty vehicles and Trucks) and the EU (Passenger cars and Light commercial vehicles)

Emission Limits for Diesel Powered LDVs, NOx, and NMHC in the US (Light‑duty vehicles and Trucks) and the EU (Passenger cars and Light commercial vehicles)

Links
References