WLTP explained

What is WLTP?

The abbreviation WLTP stands for “Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure”. This involves a new test procedure for a more realistic determination of fuel consumption and CO2 emission values of vehicles that will be legally binding for all vehicles as of September 2018. WLTP will replace step-by-step the previously applicable NEDC procedure.

As a result we have a number of cars that must be registered before this date, please check out our latest new car offers.

What is the WLTP Driving cycle?

A vehicle’s consumption and emissions depend on driving style. This is why driving data has been compiled for WLTP around the world. This data has been used to define 4 representative phases with different average speeds: low, medium, high and extra high. Within each of these phases, there are different intensities of acceleration, braking and stopping in order to depict situations with a relevance to everyday driving style. The combination of these phases then results in the driving cycle.

How is BMW dealing with the new WLTP standards?

The BMW Group is already working on the transition to the new test procedure and is preparing its product portfolio step-by-step with new vehicles, new engine versions or technical revisions. This will then ensure that all vehicles within the entire BMW fleet comply with the conditions of their respective legal framework at all times.
As a matter of principle: vehicles of the BMW Group comply with the respective legal requirements. The relevant results from national and international official investigations confirm this.

What does WLTP mean for hybrid and electric vehicles?

As electric and hybrid vehicles are used mainly in urban areas, WLTP provides, in addition to the four phases of low, medium, high and extra high, a separate 5th phase for them – namely the City Phase. This combines the speeds of the phases that best reflect the motoring situation in urban areas: low and medium. This enables more realistic indications of range to be given.

What does WLTP mean for me?

Introduction of WLTP will mean that the fuel consumption and CO2 values indicated will approximate those in real-world operation. Irrespective of this, taking into account individual special equipment in WLTP will additionally lead to more realistic values as they are based on your personal vehicle configuration. At the same time, however, more realistic values will also mean higher consumption and CO2 values for vehicles with combustion engines and a lower electric range for electric vehicles (including plug-in hybrids). Depending on national legislation, higher CO2 taxes may result.