Most auto executives think climate change is top issue for car industry
Fri 30 November 2007
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Nearly three-quarters of senior motor industry executives think that carbon dioxide emissions and climate change is now the single most important issue facing the automotive sector. The SMMT's Fifth Annual Issues Survey showed that senior executives think that tax incentives/fuel prices is the most important issue driving demand for both low carbon vehicles and fuels.
The SMMT survey, which included the responses of over 100 senior motor executives, reveals that most of the industry (62%) feels that its investment in greener technologies will be leading consumer choice in the next decade, rather than responding to consumer demands. The industry has more often suggested customers have driven some parts of the industry towards higher carbon options rather than being the result of supply-side decisions. The survey found that decision-makers will also need to spend more on R&D to promote CO2 reduction measures in the years to come.
On national road pricing, the SMMT reports that companies are ambivalent about its environmental benefits. Only 22 per cent felt that road pricing would help cut CO2 while 20 per cent felt it would increase it. 58 per cent think it would have no effect at all. However, respondents were clear on their thoughts in terms of its cost to business; 87 per cent felt it would add costs, with just one per cent optimistic of a reduction.
The SMMT survey is intended to cover executive views on the leading issues currently facing the motor industry.
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