Press Releases
New report shows new car emissions continue to fall
3rd April 2003 (Source: SMMT )
A new report from SMMT shows that average CO2 emissions from new cars have fallen for the sixth successive year. CO2 emissions for new cars fell by an average of 1.9 per cent in 2002 to 174.2g/km, down from 177.6g/km in 2001.
With the introduction of CO2 based tax schemes1, emissions data has become increasingly important to car buyers and policy makers alike. The second annual report, UK New Car Registrations by CO2 Performance, offers a unique insight into the UK new car market, how it has performed over recent years, and gives a breakdown by fuel type, segment and tax band. It also offers reasons for the reductions and forecasts for future changes.
SMMT chief executive Christopher Macgowan commented, 'Recent changes in company car tax and VED have helped focus attention on fuel efficiency. Further increases in vehicle taxation could de-stabilise the new car market and undermine the commercial viability of producers and their ability to meet environmental objectives.'
Significant growth in diesel and supermini registrations have contributed to the drop in CO2 emissions alongside the development of cleaner technology vehicles. UK diesel penetration has increased rapidly over the past two years. However, at 23.5 per cent of the market, the UK level of diesel penetration remains well below the EU average of 41 per cent. Further rises in motoring taxes in the forthcoming budget could seriously undermine the trend toward diesel cars.
Click here for more information
Back to latest press releases