But the plans met with quick criticism from environmentalists for not being tough enough and from carmakers claiming they put an unfair burden on the industry that could cost jobs in Europe.
Under a commission proposal unveiled Wednesday, new passenger cars would be required to emit on average no more than 120 grammes per kilometre travelled as of 2012, which would represent a cut of about 25 percent from current levels.
Auto makers would be required to limit average emissions across their fleet to 130 grammes per kilometer by improving the technology they use. A further 10 grammes would be cut through requirements on tyre, equipment and fuel makers to improve air-conditioning efficiency, tyre pressure monitoring and gear shift indicators while increasing the use of biofuels and other measures.
The European Union's executive arm is aiming to present by the end of the year formal legislation that will then have to be approved by EU governments and the European Parliament.
"Clearly the European auto industry faces a major challenge and I would urgently advise them to face up to the challenge," EU Industry Commissioner Guenter Verheugen told journalists.
"I know that European industry can meet that challenge." With carmakers failing to meet existing voluntary targets, the commission decided binding limits were needed, but Verheugen and Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas were divided over how much an effort should come from car makers.
Dimas sought a tough binding limit of 120 grammes for car makers while Verheugen wanted measures to be shared with tyre, equipment and fuel makers, easing the burden on the automobile industry, which he says employs 12 million people directly or indirectly in Europe.
Subscribe
Subscribe to IEMA's newsletters to receive timely articles, expert opinions, event announcements, and much more, directly in your inbox.
Posted on 11th February 2007
Latest Posts
-
IEMA focus on skills, adaptation and nature-based solutions in CCC report
- 18th July 2024 -
Labour's plan for economic growth must mean green growth – but there is a green skills gap looming
- 5th July 2024 -
As Labour plans to “slash red tape” for economic growth, YouGov poll finds 3 in 5 people want to increase public involvement in planning system
- 28th June 2024 -
Medtronic agrees partnership with IEMA to accelerate skills and standards in sustainability
- 21st June 2024 -
Landmark climate impact ruling for fossil fuel projects, cites IEMA guidance
- 20th June 2024 -
IEMA sets out 18 policy asks for the next Government
- 3rd June 2024