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Average new car CO2 emissions fell by biggest margin in 2009 |
Report shows average car sold in 2009 emitted just 149.5g/km of CO2.
The annual New Car CO2 Report has shown that the average new car CO2 emissions fell by their biggest every margin in 2009.
The report by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) shows that the average new car sold in the UK in 2009 emitted just 149.5g/km of CO2, down 5.4 per cent on the 2008 figure. The rate of reduction was three times the average rate achieved since data was first measured in 1997.
Minis and specialist sports cars made the biggest reduction over the past year, falling 6.7 per cent and 6.3 per cent respectively on 2008 figures.
2009 saw the 12th successive annual drop in average new car CO2 emissions, with the rate of decline increased by the recession and subsequent Scrappage Incentive Scheme steering buyers towards more fuel-efficient models.
27.6 per cent of the cars registered in the UK in 2009 met the target set in the European CO2 regulation for 2015, emitting less then 130g/km.
SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: "Vehicle manufacturers have invested heavily in both improving conventional technologies and bringing advanced systems to market that reduce the environmental impact of new vehicles."
"Developing a long-term and consistent approach to vehicle taxation and environmental incentives will be important in maintaining the current rate of improvement."
Further information:
SMMT |
