An agreement has finally been made on future targets for CO2 emissions from cars following a series of meetings between the Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and the French Presidency of the Council.

A compromise has been reached based on the Commission’s proposed target of 120g/km for new passenger cars by 2012 compared to the current levels of 160g/km. The target of 130g/km has now been settled on and is to be reached by improvements in vehicle motor technology with the additional 10g/km reduction to come from other technological improvements and increased use of biofuels.

Here is a summary of some of the key points agreed to:

• - A long-term target has been established for new car fleet average emissions of 95g/km by 2020.
• - Interim targets have been established to help manufacturers phase in the changes. By January 2012 65 per cent of fleets must meet the target; by January 2013 75 per cent; 80 per cent in January 2014; and 100 per cent by 2015. The original proposal required 100 per cent implementation by 2012.
• - Excess premiums will be charged to manufacturers that exceed the carbon dioxide targets. From 2012 to 2018 these will be as follows:

• 1. €5 Euro for the first gram of CO2.
• 2. €15 Euro for the second gram of CO2.
• 3. €25 Euro for the third gram of CO2.
• 4. €95 Euro from the fourth gram of CO2 onwards.

• - The CO2 targets for passenger cars will be defined as a function of the utility on a linear basis with mass selected as the initial parameter.

The compromise now requires endorsement from the full Council and will be put to a first reading vote at the European Parliament’s December session in Strasbourg.

Related posts

• Green cars to be mandatory
• Is speed the key to slashing emissions?
• Scots aim to limit car use
• Hertz joins green car hire battle
• Company wants its share of green car loans
• Indian carmaker introduces green car labels
• Fisker to unveil new green car
• Green car ratings now in place
• Vital year ahead for Silicon Valley
• Air Car moves a step closer