The Impact of Vehicle Heating Systems on the Energy Consumption Determined Based on the Vehicle Exhaust Emission Tests Under Actual Operating Conditions

Abstract

Global policies aim at a reduction of the greenhouse gas emissions (particularly CO₂) and tightening the emission limits for vehicles. As a result, automotive manufactures have been forced to optimize the propulsion systems as well as other units such as air conditioning or heating systems. Currently, a great deal of research has been carried out on reducing energy consumption in vehicles [1–3]. Institute of Combustion Engines and Transport of Poznan University of Technology, conducted a study on the impact of heating systems on the energy consumption in a variety of vehicles. Two parking heaters were compared in terms of their emission characteristics and the temperature inside the vehicle measured while the engine was off. Based on these results and the heating rate inside the vehicle were determined. At the same time the temperatures inside the vehicle were measured. The study was conducted under the same conditions. In order to determine the impact of these systems on the vehicle energy consumption the emission measurements were carried out with all systems activated. The obtained results were used to determine both the and gas mileage as well as the specific emission of CO, HC, NO_x, CO₂. The temperatures were used to determine the effect of the heating system design on the travel comfort. A portable gas analyzer (PEMS) SEMTECH DS (made by Sensors Inc.) was used to measure CO, HC, NO_x, CO₂, O₂ and the exhaust gas mass flow rate. Temperatures were measured with 6 PERSONAL IOTECH DAQ 3000 thermocouple transmitters.

F2012-A07-027