CO2 emissions from new vehicles in Australia much higher than in Europe
14 March 2012
The average carbon dioxide emissions from new passenger cars sold in 2011 in Australia was 198 g/km, according to a report published by the Australian National Transport Commission. This figure is 45% higher than the average CO2 emissions of 136.1 g/km from cars in the European Union.
Including light commercial vehicles with emissions of 245 g/km, the combined Australian fleet average emissions are 206.6 g/km.
In 2011, 15 manufacturers sold 93% of the new light vehicles in Australia. Of these manufacturers, Suzuki had the lowest average corporate emissions (161 g/km) and Nissan the highest average corporate emissions (226 g/km).
The 2011 emissions were reduced by 2.8% compared to 2010.
According to the report, the reasons why emissions are higher in Australia than in Europe include Europe’s higher taxes on gasoline and lower on diesel, regulatory CO2 emission targets for manufacturers, excise duties that encourage consumers to buy low-emission vehicles and financial incentives for buying low emission vehicles.
Source: NTC Australia