Car Industry Admits to Falling Short of Emissions Targets

The UK car industry is facing increasing pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) admitting that current reductions are not enough to meet European targets. Despite a 1.2 per cent cut in average new car carbon emissions last year, the industry's trade body acknowledged that a 25 per cent reduction by 2008 is "clearly challenging". To hit this goal, the industry would need to cut carbon dioxide emissions by 5 per cent annually, sell 20 times as many alternative fuel vehicles, and increase diesel engine market share to 50 per cent.

Key Takeaways:

• The SMMT has admitted that the current rate of carbon reduction is not sufficient to meet European targets, with a 25 per cent reduction by 2008 deemed "clearly challenging".
• To meet the 2008 target, the industry would need to achieve 5 per cent annual cuts in carbon dioxide emissions.
• The SMMT estimates that 20 times as many alternative fuelled cars would be required to take a 5 per cent market share.
• Matthew Croucher, economics manager at the SMMT, stated that a third of carbon gains from improved engine and vehicle technology are being wiped out by regulatory changes from the European Commission and extra features demanded by customers.
• Since 1998, a typical diesel family car has cut carbon dioxide emissions by 35 per cent due to modern engines, better gearboxes, power steering, and lower resistance tyres.
• However, limits on smog-forming nitrogen oxide emissions, pedestrian protection, and other safety requirements have increased carbon emissions by 10 per cent.
• A study by the SMMT found that the target could be met if everyone switched to "supermini" cars, such as the Ford Fiesta or Peugot 206, and continued with annual cuts in emissions.
• However, sales of 4x4s and executive saloons are growing, making it difficult for the industry to encourage people to switch to more environmentally friendly vehicles.

Statistics:

• Average new car carbon emissions reduced by 1.2 per cent in 2022 to 169.4 grammes per km.
• Estimated 5 per cent annual cuts in carbon dioxide emissions required to meet 2008 target.
• 20 times as many alternative fuelled cars needed to achieve a 5 per cent market share.
• 35 per cent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions achieved by a typical diesel family car since 1998.
• 10 per cent increase in carbon emissions due to regulatory changes and customer demands.
• 1.2 per cent of market share held by alternative fuelled cars in 2022.

Sources:

• "Car industry admits to falling short of emissions targets" by The Guardian (date not specified)
• "SMMT: 25% emissions cut 'clearly challenging'" by The Telegraph (date not specified)
• "Study finds supermini cars key to meeting emissions target" by SMMT (date not specified)
• "UK car industry faces tough emissions targets" by BBC News (date not specified)
• "SMMT study shows impact of regulatory changes on emissions" by SMMT (date not specified)
• "Car makers 'must sell 20 times more eco-friendly cars'" by The Times (date not specified)