Tough plans to cut carbon dioxide emissions from cars are set to be eased by the European Union, new documents confirmed yesterday (23rd September).

The European Parliament environment committee is set to vote tomorrow on the legislature's position in negotiations with member governments over the proposals.

The move could see the compulsory emissions limits devised by the executive European Commission relaxed, while also reducing the fines for non-compliance and allowing automakers more choice in how they achieve the cuts.

If the resolution is passed, it would represent a major victory for the German automobile industry in particular, which produces large numbers of high-emission heavy luxury vehicles.

The Commission originally proposed to cap CO₂ emissions from new vehicles to an average of 130g per km - compared with the current EU average of 158g - starting in 2012.

But under the new plans, automakers would only be required to ensure that 70 per cent of their fleet met the target by 2012, with 100 per cent being reached by 2015.

In addition, the maximum fine for non-compliance would be set at €50 per g/km for each vehicle, as opposed to the original agreement of €90.

The gradual phase-in would undoubtedly be welcomed by most manufacturers, who have expressed their need for more time to implement changes and to protect thousands of jobs.



Source:

EU lawmakers set to halt carbon curbs (23/09/08)
http://www.reuters.com/article/environmentNews/idUSTRE48MA1O20080923?sp=true