The US .S. created 6,577 million metric tons of carbon dioxide of greenhouse gas emissions in 2019.

Every vehicle we use daily contributes to these emissions. Carbon emissions from cars are the countries’ most significant source of pollution.

To reduce the countries’ emissions, the Environmental Protection Agency has created emission standards that all vehicles need to comply with. These standards take the most polluting vehicles off the road. This policy is one of many contributing to combat climate change.

Are you buying a new car? Curious about the EPA emissions standards? Read on to find out what to look for to choose a less polluting vehicle.

1. How Do the EPA Calculate Emissions?

How Do the EPA Calculate Emissions

To determine the emission level of a specific vehicle, the EPA looks at the fuel that the vehicle uses. The emission regulations are set for particular pollutants being emitted, such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides.

Once the EPA knows how many pollutants a specific vehicle emits, they can see if it exceeds the limit of emissions one vehicle can create.

2. What Is the Manufacturer’s Responsibility?

Every motor vehicle has to comply with the Clean Air Act (CAA). This sets a standard that every new car must comply with. The manufacturer of vehicles has to submit an application for a certificate.

The manufacturer must show evidence that they meet all the criteria to be awarded the certificate.

If vehicles end up on the road that doesn’t meet the standards, the automobile makers must pay a fine.

3. How Can Manufacturers Meet Emission Standards?

In order to meet the air emissions regulations, manufacturers must design their vehicles with highly efficient exhaust combustion. They need to have systems that catch vaporizing gasoline.

The exhaust must also have a filter that takes away polluting particles before they can enter the atmosphere.

Petrol importers and refiners must also comply with a stringent set of rules about the pollution levels of their fuels.

4. What Can the Consumer Do to Reduce Car Emissions?

What Can the Consumer Do to Reduce Car Emissions

As a consumer, you can do your research and ensure you choose a vehicle that is energy efficient. Ensure the vehicle uses a NOx-sensor to confirm the vehicle is compliant with emissions regulations.

Most engines feature two NOx-sensors that regulate how much nitrogen oxide is being emitted from a vehicle. You can find out more about NOx-sensors here

5. How To Choose An Energy Efficient Vehicle

When purchasing a car, a truck, or a van, there are many considerations to ensure energy efficiency. As a general rule, the smaller the vehicle, the fewer emissions it will create.

Choose a vehicle that suits your needs and doesn’t have a bigger engine or higher horsepower than you actually need. This will not only save you on fuel costs but also be better for the environment.

Environment-Friendly Vehicles

Environment-Friendly Vehicles

EPA emission standards are in place for a reason. The EPA is doing its best to make our vehicles produce less harmful gases and be fuel-efficient.

Now you know why the regulations are in place and how they are developed, you will be able to choose a vehicle that complies with the standards.

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