The aim of Euro 6 and previous similar regulation is to reduce harmful emissions and protect both the environment and reduce harmful diesel exhaust gases. Euro 6 diesel vehicles are cleaner and more economical for motorists and emit less nitrogen oxides and carbon dioxide.

 

Dr. Rolf Bulander, the member of the board of management of Robert Bosch GmbH responsible for powertrain technology says, "Euro 6 will make diesel cars as clean as gasoline cars.” He points out that the main thrust of the new regulation is to set lower limits for vehicle emissions of particulates and nitrogen oxides. As of 1 September 2014, diesel vehicles may emit no more than 80 mg/km of nitrogen oxides (gasoline vehicles: 60 mg/km). This replaces the previous limit of 180 mg/km. As of 1 January 2015, all new vehicles sold must meet the Euro 6 limits.

 

Diesel vehicles need a perfectly tuned exhaust-treatment system in order to meet the lower limits set out in Euro 6. For vehicles weighing up to around 1,700kg, a low-cost NOx storage catalytic converter is sufficient. "In heavy vehicles, only an SCR catalytic converter with AdBlue will do,” says Dr. Markus Heyn, president of the Diesel Systems division at Robert Bosch GmbH. This system injects AdBlue, an odourless urea solution, which converts the nitrogen oxides into harmless water vapour and nitrogen. AdBlue is refilled at regular service intervals.