Another US state has adopted stricter emissions rules that aim to cut the amount of emissions produced by vehicles.

Oregon state authorities based the new regulations on those introduced by its west coast neighbour California, which was the first to take a tougher stance on emissions.

The Oregon Environmental Quality Commission unanimously approved the rules to join ten other states now applying the Californian standards.

California was the first to set targets on vehicle emissions linked to global warming last September.

The rules will be gradually introduced from 2009 and will eventually require a 30 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions such as carbon dioxide.

Washington, Maine, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey have all accepted the rules.
   
Platinum-family metals are used in catalytic converter technology designed to cut harmful exhaust fumes from cars.

Car makers argue that the new rules will add thousands of dollars to the cost of buying a vehicle, although supporters suggest drivers will benefit from a saving in terms of fuel economy.

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