Main navigation

Daily news

2012 car emission goals 'unrealistic'

12 May 2008

The European Union deadline to cut carbon dioxide emissions from new cars by 2012 is 'unrealistic', industry commissioner told a German newspaper on Sunday.

Guenther Verheugen said the proposals could, in any event, be delayed by the European parliament.

While he 'fully' supported the commission objective, the EU automobile industry would only be able to meet the target 'without great difficulty' from 2015, he added.

He said the commission was fully aware that not all new cars could meet these standards by 2012.

Brussels wants all cars sold in the 27-nation trading bloc in 2012 to cut CO2 emissions to 120-130 grammes per kilometre as opposed to an average of 160 grammes at present levels.

The EU executive has said it will fine carmakers who do not reach the goal by 2012 with a charge of 20 euros per extra gramme of CO2 per car, with fines rising to 95 euros by 2015.

Find out how the Energy Saving Trust can help you