New car emissions lowest ever

THE AVERAGE CAR in the UK now emits an average of 128.3g/km, the lowest ever and almost 30% less than in 2000.

This means the UK has exceeded the target set by the European Union for average CO2 emissions of 130g/km by 2015. The next target is 95g/km that is set for 2020.

Car makers have been praised by the report of the figures, which is published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Their efforts to reduce emissions have helped to cut the average ahead of the deadline.

However, car buyers are also credited with helping to lower the average in the UK as they adopt smaller, more fuel efficient and lower emitting cars. There has also been a three-fold increase in the number of plug-in hybrid cars sold in the past three years, as well as 7.7% increase in sales of electric vehicles in 2013.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: ‘The UK automotive industry should be proud of the progress it has made in improving the environmental impact of its vehicles. Average new car CO2 emissions are almost 30% lower than in 2000, boosted by increasing uptake of the most fuel efficient engine technologies, alternative fuel vehicles and the new Go Ultra Low campaign.’

By Press Association reporters