While new car’s are slashing emissions across the board, Fiat is leading the way, the latest industry analysis reveals.
According to data from automotive research experts, JATO Dynamics, the Fiat brand and Fiat Group posted Europe’s lowest volume weighted CO2 emissions in 2009.
The carmaker logged a CO2 average of just 127.8 g/km, compared with 133.7 g/km in 2008’s results. This puts it ahead of Toyota (at an average of 130.1 g/km), Peugeot (with 133.6 g/km), Renault (137.5 g/km), Citroen (137.9 g/km), Ford (140.0 g/km), Opel/Vauxhall (148.9 g/km), Volkswagen (150.4 g/km), Audi (160.9 g/km) and Mercedes (176.4 g/km).
The Italian brand also ranked first among the motor groups (131.0 g/km), ahead of Toyota, PSA, Renault and Hyundai.
It means that the carmaker has already beaten the European average target of 130 g/km, five years ahead of its 2015 implementation.
The Italian carmaker’s strategy to reduce emissions-responsible for the fall in average emissions- is based on a two-pronged approach: implementing technological solutions aimed at containing consumption and emissions, and raising the awareness of motorists to spur a more responsible, eco-compatible use of their cars.
Unique engines, such as the new 900cc, 95 g/km Twin-Air two-cylinder and second-generation 1.3 MultiJet engines delivering power of up to 95hp, are part of that strategy. Raising awareness is the second part of the policy – implemented by the firm’s eco:Drive the in-car software which analyses driver behaviour and suggests ways to improve it.
“These are important figures as they show not just the environmental impact of one or two of our cars, but the whole range,” says Andrew Humberstone, managing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK and Ireland. "That means that every vehicle we sell is making its own contribution to emissions cutting and is playing its part in making Europe a cleaner place in which to live.”
