Heated Exhaust Claims Near Emission-Free ICE Starting
A new exhaust with a heated catalytic converter claims near zero emissions on cold engine start-up.
Benteler’s system is aimed at meeting the European Union vehicle emission Euro-7 standard, which will come into force at the latest in 2025. The electrically heated catalyst ensures that the exhaust system quickly reaches its optimum operating temperature during a cold start. As a result, almost 100% of pollutants are removed from the exhaust gases.
This stage plays an important role in the context of the pollutant tests, especially given future driving cycles where greater weight will be applied to the cold start phase in a bid to reduce urban pollution where vehicles stop and start frequently. The company’s heated catalytic converter consists of a stacked metal structure welded into the exhaust system between the turbocharger and the conventional catalytic converter. It claims to be suitable for all vehicles with ICE powertrains including engines gasoline petrol, diesel and hybrid.
Dr Rainer Lübbers, executive vice-president of Benteler’s business unit engine and exhaust systems, said: “With our electrically heated catalysts we’re paving the way for car manufacturers in the direction of low emission vehicles. As a result, we’re making a further contribution to sustainable mobility.”
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in London. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
