EU report shows 3.7% decline in average new car CO2 emissions in 2010

Wed 29 June 2011 View all news

The European Environment Agency has published a new report showing a decline in the average CO2 emissions of new cars in 2010 of 3.7%. The provisional data shows the second largest annual decline since the monitoring scheme began in 2000.

Last year's improvements bring the average CO2 emissions of cars registered in the EU to 140 grams per km. At this rate of progress, the European target of 130g CO2/km will be met earlier than the 2015 deadline. The decrease in average emissions in 2010 was lower than in 2009 (5,1%); according to the EEA, the results in 2009 were probably influenced by the economic crisis and the scrappage schemes in some member states.

The average engine capacity of the cars sold in 2010 slightly increased compared to 2009. Also the average weight of cars rose considerably after the sharp decrease in 2009 and is now back at the level seen in the years prior to the economic crisis. However, average CO2 emissions per kilometre travelled were cut thanks to improved vehicle technology and fuel efficiency.

Transport and the Environment – the Brussels-based NGO – said that the data released shows that the average weight of cars has risen by 28kg or 2% as carmakers increasingly market SUVs and so-called crossover vehicles. Heavier cars require more energy to move so burn more fuel and produce more emissions. Had weight not increased, T&E said, the CO2 reduction would have been 5%, or one third better.

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