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SMMT reveals rise of the eco-friendly car

Published: 09 March 2010

The average CO2 emissions of cars fell by their biggest ever margin last year, the latest figures show.

According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders' (SMMT) New Car CO2 Report, last year's average emissions figure was down 5.4 per cent on 2008.

A new car emitted an average of 149.5g/km of CO2, which is 21.2 per cent lower than the base level recorded in 1997.

Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive, commented: "Vehicle manufacturers have invested heavily in both improving conventional technologies and bringing advanced systems to market that reduce the environmental impact of new vehicles."

He added that the government's scrappage scheme will also have had an impact, but urged people to continue buying green even after it comes to an end.

Caravanners are reminded that purchasing an eco-friendly car can often cut down on more than just fuel bills, as road tax and car insurance premiums may also be reduced.