2017-12-21 00:01
New car carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions have risen for the first time in 14 years, an increase industry chiefs say is likely due to buyers turning their backs on diesel cars.
Department for Transport figures uncovered by Auto Express’ sister site BuyaCar.co.uk show average new car CO2 emissions were 121.1g/km over the first ten months of 2017 and are on course to exceed the 120.3g/km recorded last year. The statistics, from data recorded by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), show that CO2 emissions for new cars have fallen by an average of 4.02g/km annually since 2003.
• Diesel could save owners £380 per year
Car dealers sold 16% fewer diesel cars - which emit less CO2 than their petrol counterparts - this year than in 2016 following tax rises, stiffer parking charges and threats of inner-city bans for diesel cars.
Addressing the rise, Tamzen Isacsson, director of the Society of Motor Manufacturer and Traders (SMMT), said: “If industry is to meet challenging CO2 targets getting more of the latest low emission diesels onto our roads is crucial, as they can emit 20% less CO2 than the equivalent petrol models.”
Isacsson blamed “confusion around government air quality plans and taxation” for the drop in diesel sales, and warned that: ”If new diesel car registrations continue on this negative trend, UK average new car CO2 levels could indeed rise this year”.
The Government has previously warned it would “intervene firmly” if progress on tackling climate change by cutting CO2 emissions continued to stall.
A Department for Transport spokesman said: “We will seek to maintain ambitious targets and our leadership position, and intervening firmly if not enough progress is being made.
“Our ambitious Clean Growth Strategy… includes investing nearly £1.5 billion in accelerating the rollout of ultra-low emission vehicles by 2020 – generating business opportunities and leading to cleaner air and lower greenhouse gas emissions.”
Recent diesel tax increases and the threat of inner-city charges are designed to tackle the higher levels of harmful nitrogen oxides and particulates that diesels produce. But they also appear to have impacted the car industry’s plans to cut CO2 emissions by selling diesels.
“Many customers are telling us that they want to avoid diesel, even if it means spending more on fuel” says Austin Collins, managing director of BuyaCar.co.uk.
“Some feel it’s best to avoid the perceived uncertainty surrounding diesel, especially with plenty of economical petrol, hybrid or electric models available; but the efficiency offered by diesel cars still makes them a good option for long-distance drivers or SUV buyers. Risk can be reduced with a finance package that protects you against a sudden drop in value, and a newer Euro 6 emissions standard car.”
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