Industry News
Motor industry displays low carbon awareness
24th July 2008
Hot on the heels of yesterday’s visit by Rt Hon Gordon Brown to the British International Motor Show where he was one of the first to see the array of environmentally friendly new cars on offer, comes further evidence demonstrating the industry’s commitment to provide a range of solutions to tackle climate change. The simplest way for consumers to compare the carbon footprint of new cars is by looking at the colour-coded label1 on display in the showroom. The energy-style colour banding, as used on ‘white goods’ such as fridges was introduced by the motor industry on a voluntary basis in 1995 and is now a familiar sight in dealerships up and down the country.
The results of a survey carried out in June by the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership were today announced at a conference held at the Show when it was revealed that the label was being used in 93% of car dealerships.
“There is no mystery surrounding new car CO2 tailpipe emissions – quite simply, low carbon cars use less fuel. There is a simple link between lower emissions and lower running costs,” said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive. “The colour-coded label on display at the point of sale represents the simplest method of giving consumers the information needed to make a lower carbon choice.”
Environmental information based on official independent simulated test results is detailed on the label, displaying the link between fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
Speaking from the Show where he presented at the LowCVP event, Paul Everitt said “The motor industry is the most honest and transparent sector when it comes to reporting environmental performance and we have cut average new car tailpipe CO2 by more than 13% in the last decade and over the first half of 2008 it has fallen by a further 3%. There have been a number of new technology cars launched here at ExCeL London, so quite clearly, lower carbon cars are becoming commonplace.”
Key points to consider when looking to purchase a new car are:
- Lower CO2 cars contribute less to climate change
- Low CO2 cars use less fuel
- Choosing a lower CO2 model will save you money
- Lower CO2 emitting cars enjoy tax benefits
- Whatever your needs there will be lower carbon choices within each segment
The LowCVP conference was just one of the many events being held at the British International Motor Show. Environmentally aware visitors can take a look at the dedicated Greener Driving Pavilion and Electric Village which complement the host of new cars on display in the main halls. Full details from www.britishmotorshow.co.uk
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