Law on Hybrid Cars with Combustion Engines Switched off when Stationary
Ministry of Sustainability and the EnvironmentSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns whether Section 21 of the Environmental Protection and Management (Vehicular Emissions) Regulations applies to stationary hybrid cars, as raised by Mr Sitoh Yih Pin. Minister for the Environment and Water Resources Masagos Zulkifli B M M clarified that the regulation applies because hybrid engines may automatically restart to power auxiliary systems, thereby generating tailpipe emissions. The Minister noted that idling engines cause fuel wastage and environmental pollution, making the regulations applicable to hybrids to ensure environmental protection. To increase awareness, the National Environment Agency has installed anti-idling signages at locations like carparks and schools while distributing educational materials to drivers. Collaborative efforts with stakeholders such as vehicle inspection centres and transport operators further aim to disseminate information regarding the legal requirements for stationary vehicles.
Transcript
44 Mr Sitoh Yih Pin asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources whether section 21 of the Environmental Protection and Management (Vehicular Emissions) Regulations applies to hybrid cars which have their combustion engines switched off – with transfer to the use of an electric motor – when the car is stationary.
Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: Under Regulation 21 of the Environmental Protection and Management (Vehicular Emissions) Regulations, it is an offence to leave the engine of a vehicle running when it is stationary for reasons other than traffic conditions. Leaving the engine running when the vehicle is stationary results in fuel wastage and unnecessary environmental pollution.
Hybrid vehicles are equipped with an internal combustion engine and an electric motor powered by a battery pack. If the battery pack is unable to meet the electrical energy needed to operate the in-vehicle auxiliary systems, such as the air-conditioning or the radio when the vehicle is stationary, the internal combustion engine will automatically re-start to provide the energy needed, thereby generating tailpipe emissions. Hence, hybrid vehicles can still emit tailpipe emissions when stationary and, thus, the regulations on idling engines also apply to hybrid vehicles.
To promote greater awareness of the regulation, NEA has installed anti-vehicle idling signages at places where vehicles frequently congregate, such as carparks, loading/unloading bays and along the roadside near schools. In addition, NEA also works closely with stakeholders, such as the authorised vehicle inspection centres, private and public transport operators and schools, to disseminate educational pamphlets and decals.