Small design change in diesel cars could cut harmful roadside air pollution by a THIRD.

Rahul Somvanshi

University of York researchers found exhaust pipes on the LEFT side create 40% more pollution where people walk.

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In the UK, about 80% of diesel cars have exhausts on the left side - exactly where pedestrians breathe.

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When exhaust is on the left, concentrated pollution plumes are released directly toward the pavement.

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Scientists used advanced "plume regression" techniques with high-speed sensors to track how exhaust gases move.

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Moving all diesel exhausts to the right side could reduce pavement-level nitrogen oxide pollution by one-third.

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Why is this worse in the UK? 76% of observed vehicles were manufactured for countries that drive on the right.

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Electric vehicles provide an unexpected bonus - they create air currents that help dilute pollution from other cars.

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"Small details in vehicle design can have a substantial impact on air pollution close to roads," says Professor David Carslaw.

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