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Everything also can cheat. It is not only bad for our environment, but our health too. 😷 Source: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/emission-cheating-devices-installed-in-some-trucks-and-buses-in-singapore SINGAPORE - Some diesel trucks and buses in Singapore have been fitted with devices that override the systems meant to clean up their exhaust emissions, The Straits Times has learnt. Popularly known as "defeat devices", they are sold online and allow vehicles to bypass emission standards and, in doing so, spew out high levels of nitrogen oxide - a poisonous greenhouse gas. Vehicle owners can save thousands of dollars each year by skimping on the exhaust treatment solution, known as AdBlue, which removes nitrogen oxide from diesel vehicle's exhaust emissions. At least one local workshop was found to offer an "AdBlue removal service", in addition to freelance mechanics who install such devices for a fee. In response to queries, the National Environment Agency (NEA) said it does not regulate the use of such cheat devices. But the agency, which sets vehicle emission standards here, added that it takes a serious view of devices that may bypass teh control of pollutant emissions. NEA also said it will work with inspection centres to monitor the use of such devices and enhance its regulations where necessary. It is not known how prevalent such devices are in Singapore. They are illegal in most European countries. Based on data from the Land Transport Authority, there are 172,996 diesel-powered vehicles as at Aug 31. The majority of those that are eight years old or newer would require AdBlue to operate properly. Diesel engine emissions include nitrogen oxide. When diesel vehicle is running, AdBlue, which is stored in a separate tank, is automatically injected into the exhaust system to convert the harmful fumes into nitrogen and water before the gases leave the vehicle's tailpipe. AdBlue is used in many diesel trucks and buses on Singapore roads. Globally, the exhaust treatment fluid is widely adopted by vehicle manufacturers to meet tightening emission standards. Keeping the vehicle topped up with AdBlue costs around 4 per cent to 5 per cent of the amount spent on diesel fuel. Commercial vehicles that clock high mileage will need to refill AdBlue more frequently. The solution is available at petrol stations as well as specialised AdBlue sellers. For private cars that do not cover so many kilometers, the top-up is usually done as part of the annual service at workshops. The price of Adblue is influenced by the rising cost of natural gas, a key ingredients used in its production. Currently, Adblue costs between $1.70 per litre to over $2 a litre, up 30 per cent from prices in 2021. In addition to saving on AdBlue refills, the cheat device enables the vehicle to be driven, even if the emission-control system is broken. Breakdowns can be caused by poor maintenance or by using lubricants that are meant for older diesel vehicles, which are cheaper to buy but are not suitable for these engines. Fixing such control systems is expensive. Mr Chew Guan Do, 62, who manages a fleet of trucks, said the bill easily exceeds $2,000 when control systems on the tipper trucks fail. Diesel vehicles also seem to need such repair more frequently as they age, adding downtime on top of hefty bills. There are different types of cheat devices - but their main function is to hookwink the vehicle's sensors to think there is AdBlue in the system when there is none. The simplest version of such devices, which are available online for as little as $40, plugs directly into a vehicle's diagnostic port. This type of devices, which takes the vehicle's emission-cleaning system out of play, can be removed before regular inspections. Experts said the vehicle will function normally and pass the tests, if it is otherwise roadworthy. A freelance engine-tuning expert, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said he has programmed a truck's computer to bypass the emission control system and has not had any issues. Many of these hacks promise improved fuel efficiency and increase engine performance. With the added horsepower, the engine will produce even more poisonous exhaust gases.