European car manufacturers could be forced to withdraw some of their least environmentally-friendly vehicles under new European Commission proposals.

Under the new plans, automakers would be faced with tougher guidelines on the emissions they produce, meaning that some of their less fuel-efficient vehicles could be forced off the roads.

Such legislation, which is being considered because of the manufacturers' apparent failure to meet voluntary targets set in 1998 and 1999, would mean more companies looking to environmentally-friendly solutions such as improved emission filters and alternative technology like fuel cell vehicles.

European environment commissioner, Stavros Dimas, has already signalled his intention to target automakers and the Euro V proposal, which could see emissions from diesel-running vehicles cut by 80 per cent, is currently under review by the European parliament.

Some have urged that the next set of regulations, Euro VI, be brought into consideration simultaneously in an effort to clamp down on emissions from Europe's motor vehicles.


Ÿ Adfero Ltd