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Car insurance policyholders contribute to CO2 emissions cut

09 Mar 2010

Posted by Judith Stevenson

Car insurance policyholders helped to cut carbon emissions last year, with the average new car bought in the UK producing just 149.5g/km of CO2.

Emissions from new vehicles fell by their biggest ever margin last year, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

A report from the organisation said that the average new car sold in the UK last year emitted 5.4 per cent less CO2.

In addition, 2009 marked the 12th successive annual drop in average new vehicle CO2 emissions, with the rate of decline steepening due to car insurance policyholders being attracted to fuel-efficient models because of the scrappage incentive.

Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive, commented: "Developing a long-term and consistent approach to vehicle taxation and environmental incentives will be important in maintaining the current rate of improvement."

Recent figures from the SMMT showed that new vehicle registrations increased by 27 per cent in February compared to the month before.