Statistical Analysis and Impact Assessment of Car Fleet Pollution: Case Study Iasi City, Romania

This study evaluates the environmental and quality-of-life impacts of the vehicle fleet in Iași, Romania (2020–2023), using the Rapid Impact Assessment Matrix (RIAM). Findings reveal a 7% annual fleet growth, with over 60% of vehicles exceeding 10–16 years in age. RIAM results consistently indicate a significant negative impact (-D) on air quality and urban well-being. While passenger cars and goods transport drive these negative effects, public and special-purpose transport offer mitigating benefits. Current adoption of hybrid and electric vehicles remains insufficient to offset the cumulative pressures of fleet expansion and ageing. The study validates RIAM as an effective integrated assessment tool and provides evidence-based support for policies targeting fleet renewal, low-emission public transport expansion, and mobility management in medium-sized cities.