New legislation has been passed in the EU Parliament which will require automakers to cut average CO2 emissions from their vehicles to 130g/km by 2015, it was confirmed on Wednesday (17th December).

The requirements are set to be phased in, with 65 per cent of new cars needing to meet the target by 2012, 75 per cent by 2013 and 80 per cent by 2014.

In addition, companies will be ordered to implement further measures such as alternative fuels and tyre pressure monitoring systems to cut emissions by another 10g/km to 120g/km on average.

Paul Everitt, Chief Executive of the UK's Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, commented: "This is an ambitious piece of legislation presenting a tough challenge to the automotive industry.

"We share the environmental objectives and welcome the long-term framework the legislation sets out."

In response to the news, ACEA, the representative of major European automakers, has reiterated its call for support from individual governments to help incorporate the changes in the short and long term.

President Christian Streiff said: "We are committed to do what we can to deliver, despite the sudden, dramatic economic downturn that severely limits our resources.

"We ask for governments to support the strategic auto sector in these extraordinary circumstances."

Mr Streiff added that the body welcomes the European Investment Bank's €16 billion contribution to the transport sector and the European Commission's stimulus package.

Source:

CO2 emissions to be slashed by 2015 (18/12/08)
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/3832306/CO2-emissions-to-be-slashed-by-2015.html