The Challenge
‘Defeat devices’ affect the performance of a motor vehicle’s emissions control system in ways that cause it to be noncompliant with regulatory emissions standards. Defeat devices can be physical devices, software settings, or alterations to the vehicle, but they tend to be difficult to identify during routine, regulatory certification test procedures. When regulators allege the existence of defeat devices, one key scientific inquiry involves determining how to accurately quantify the environmental harm of the alleged violations.
Our Solution
Spheros employees have advised EPA, U.S. DOJ, and others on multiple cases related to the environmental impacts of defeat devices. Our earliest work dates to the late 2000’s, when we advised EPA during its litigation filings and negotiations with automobile and heavy-duty truck manufacturers. Our team comprehensively analyzes tailpipe emissions, vehicle data, published information, and models like MOVES and EMFAC to assess how alleged defeat devices may incrementally affect fleetwide emissions during on-road operations.
Results +What makes this unique
Spheros addresses every issue with an impartial, science-driven perspective, delivering clear transparent results that adhere to established emission inventory development standards. Our approach streamlines scientific dialogue, enabling negotiations to proceed efficiently to other substantive case matters.
