BM Catalysts has welcomed research from the University of York that highlights the impact of tailpipe placement on roadside air quality.
The study, published in ACS ES&T Air, reveals that simply positioning vehicle exhausts on the right-hand side of cars could reduce nitrogen oxide (NOₓ) exposure for pedestrian and cyclists by around one-third in the UK.
“This new research reinforces the message that every design decision matters when it comes to air quality,” commented Mark Blinston, Commercial Director at BM Catalysts. “Our mission has always been to reduce harmful emissions through our products, whether that is through catalytic converters, DPFs, or SCR systems. Findings like these highlight new opportunities to complement our existing work and push the industry further towards cleaner, healthier air.”
BM Catalysts believes the study underscores the importance of ongoing collaboration between researcher, manufacturers and policymakers when it comes to air quality. Therefore, aftermarket specialists such as BM Catalysts show keen interest in the latest innovations, in a united effort to ensure that harmful emissions are controlled as effectively as possible.
“Reducing harmful emissions and improving air quality is not just a regulatory requirement, it is a responsibility to public health and the environment,” added Blinston. “We welcome innovative studies like this one and remain committed to working with partners across the industry to drive down emissions in every possible way.”
Changes ahead for air quality legislation?
Automotive emissions and the challenge of improving air quality are a big talking point in Europe at present. The European Union has already scaled back its recent CO2 legislation on carmakers, allowing them to meet targets over an average scored across three years, rather than just this year alone.
Additionally, further talks are taking place on emissions legislation, while there have been calls, mostly from carmakers, for the bloc’s 2035 petrol, diesel and hybrid ban to be rescinded.
These talks could impact UK legislation. Currently, the government is sticking to its petrol and diesel ban for 2030, with hybrids phased out by 2035. However, if the EU decides to continue with internal combustion engines, and regulate areas such as e-fuels and hydrogen for long-term development, carmakers will not want to produce models purely for the UK market.
Therefore, studies such as this from the University of York can help both vehicle design of the present, and the future. And as long as petrol and diesel models exist, the aftermarket will be called in to help replace those emissions systems, should they fail. And further development can help to prevent poor air quality levels.
Lowering harmful emissions
As emissions control specialists, BM Catalysts’ focus has always been on reducing harmful vehicle emissions through continuous product innovation and engineering excellence. With over 90% of components manufactured in-house across its four UK facilities, BM Catalysts have a reputation for high-quality, reliable products that meet the latest emission control regulations.
BM Catalysts continues to invest in its manufacturing capabilities, product development, and quality assurance processes. The company is also exploring ways in which insights from studies like the University of York’s can be applied to support its broader mission: extending vehicle lifespans responsibly while helping to minimise environmental impact.
To find out more about BM Catalysts latest innovations visit bmcats.com.
