The automotive world is constantly evolving, pushing the boundaries of performance while simultaneously navigating increasingly stringent emission standards. For vehicles like the Ferrari 812 Competizione, this presents a unique challenge: how to maintain exhilarating power and driving dynamics within the framework of modern environmental regulations. Understanding the testing procedures behind these regulations provides valuable insight into the engineering and innovation involved in creating such high-performance machines.
Historically, the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) served as the standard for measuring fuel consumption and emissions in Europe. Introduced in stages, the NEDC aimed to provide a standardized, repeatable laboratory test for comparing different vehicles. However, the NEDC cycle, with its low average speed of 34 km/h, gentle accelerations, and a maximum speed of just 120 km/h, became increasingly outdated. It no longer accurately reflected real-world driving conditions or the capabilities of modern vehicles, especially high-performance sports cars like the 812 Competizione, which are rarely, if ever, driven at such limited parameters.
Recognizing the need for a more representative testing protocol, the Worldwide harmonised Light-duty vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) was introduced, gradually replacing the NEDC from September 1, 2017. The WLTP is designed to provide consumers with more realistic fuel consumption and emission figures that better reflect everyday vehicle use. The key difference lies in the driving cycle itself. WLTP, using the Worldwide harmonised Light-duty vehicle Test Cycles (WLTC), employs a more dynamic driving profile. It features more significant acceleration, a higher maximum speed of 131.3 km/h, a faster average speed of 46.5 km/h, and a longer test duration of 30 minutes. The distance covered in the WLTP test is also doubled compared to NEDC, extending to 23.25 kilometers.
The WLTP test cycle is further broken down into four parts based on speed: Low, Medium, High, and Extra-high. These segments simulate a wider range of driving scenarios, encompassing urban, suburban, extra-urban roads, and motorways. This comprehensive approach aims to provide a more accurate assessment of a vehicle’s emissions across diverse driving conditions. Moreover, WLTP considers vehicle-specific optional equipment that can impact aerodynamics, rolling resistance, and overall vehicle mass. This granular approach results in a CO2 value that is tailored to the specific configuration of each individual vehicle, offering a more precise representation of its environmental performance.
For a car like the Ferrari 812 Competizione, which is engineered for ultimate performance, adhering to WLTP standards requires sophisticated engine management systems and advanced technologies. While the focus remains on delivering exceptional power and driving pleasure, manufacturers like Ferrari must also ensure their vehicles meet these rigorous emission standards. The WLTP provides a more challenging and realistic benchmark, pushing automotive engineers to innovate and develop cleaner, yet still thrilling, high-performance vehicles. The 812 Competizione stands as a testament to this balance, showcasing how cutting-edge automotive engineering can harmonize exhilarating performance with the demands of modern emission testing protocols.
