Diesel-powered cars and light trucks are expected to account for 28 per cent of global light-vehicle sales by 2015, according to a new report released today (September 29th).

A JD Power-LMC forecast suggests that global diesel light-vehicle sales will increase from 12.5 million in 2003 to 27 million by 2015, with 60 per cent of the growth coming from outside of Europe.

While diesel sales in Europe, Asia and South America are expected to enjoy steady growth, analysts say the US diesel market is finally set to take off.

'We expect diesel cars and trucks to comprise as much as 16 per cent of new light-vehicle sales in North America within the next 12 years,' commented Alastair Bedwell, research manager for LMC Automotive Services.

'The fiscal environment and local regulations are the two key factors that influence consumer decisions when it comes to diesel-powered vehicles,' Mr Bedwell continued.

'Diesels took off first in countries where fuel taxation is high and where taxes on diesel are lower than on gasoline. Later, it penetrated countries such as the UK where fuel taxes are less discriminatory, but still high. The final challenge is countries is in where fuel taxation is neither high nor discriminatory,' he concluded.