Research on fuel and electric energy consumption in passenger cars in a mixed cycle, using the example of local road traffic in Opole

This article presents a comparative analysis of fuel and electric energy consumption by passenger cars in a mixed cycle in real road conditions, taking into account the specific nature of local traffic in the city of Opole. The research was carried out in real road conditions on a designated road cycle, in accordance with the guide-lines described in the RDE (Real Driving Emissions) road cycle procedure. The designated road cycle reflects the conditions prevailing on urban, suburban, and highway roads. The results obtained from the road cycle were compared with the fuel and electric energy consumption values declared by car manufacturers in the type-approval documentation authorizing the car for use on public roads. The comparative analysis revealed discrepancies between actual and laboratory data, which for electric passenger cars are determined in relation to the WLTP cycle. In the case of combustion engine passenger cars, fuel consumption was additionally converted into energy expenditure, which enabled a comparison of the energy efficiency of different drive systems in real road conditions in the TTW (Tank-To-Wheels) system. The article highlights the challenges of developing a representative road cycle for local road conditions that complies with RDE guidelines.