Real Driving Emissions: The Impact on Engineers - 60 Seconds with Tom Moakes of HORIBA MIRA

Ahead of speaking at the Real Driving Emissions seminar, we caught up with Tom Moakes, Project Engineer at HORIBIA MIRA. Tom explained his role and involvement in real driving emissions (RDE) testing, the critical challenges and what he is looking forward to at the event.

Q: Could you briefly explain your role and involvement in emissions testing?

Tom Moakes (TM): My role is as a Project Engineer within the Powertrain & Emissions department. Specifically, I am one of the lead engineers within the RDE team, involved in a large proportion of our RDE test programmes, including development of our processes and procedures. This comprises of R&D, certification activities, as well as our own internal research projects. I have been involved in the growth of HORIBA MIRA’s RDE test service since the beginning of the regulatory implementation.

Q: What is the number one challenge facing engineers in the adoption of RDE and WLTP (worldwide harmonised light vehicle test procedure) testing in today’s current market?

TM: The number one challenge facing engineers is the requirement to test vehicles and ensure test success / compliance in all boundary conditions; temperature, altitude, driving style. This is a major challenge not only for powertrain and after-treatment development, but also logistically.

Q: What is the most exciting development in this field at the moment, either within your company or in the industry in general?

TM: The development of road to rig capabilities, to enable OEMs the scope for RDE verification from engine dyno to chassis dyno prior to on road testing and certification.

Q: Where do you see the future of emissions testing techniques going over the next five to ten years?

TM: I believe emissions testing will diversify far more within the next five to ten years. Portable emissions testing equipment will likely become more accessible and widespread with the growing demand, particularly when ‘in service testing’ becomes mandatory for passenger vehicles.

Q: What are you most looking forward to by attending and presenting at the Real Driving Emissions seminar?

TM: I am most looking forward to hearing about the different experiences from experts in different areas around the industry. I hope that I can take some learnings both as an individual and also for HORIBA MIRA.

Key programme highlights:

• Develop RDE and WLTP testing best practice with Ford Motors, Millbrook Proving Ground and Ricardo UK
• Overcome the obstacles associated with testing methodologies and adaptation to the new regulations in practice with HORIBA MIRA and Ricardo UK
• Validate vehicle performance and improve urban air quality using real-world ratings with Emissions Analytics
• Take part in our interactive roundtable sessions to engage directly with those involved in vehicle testing