Legislation to force down harmful emissions from cars has been agreed by the European Commission. It wants to introduce steeply rising fines for manufacturers who fail to reduce carbon dioxide levels – the main gas blamed for global warming. If the measure is approved, the EU executive says there’ll be a four-year phase-in period from 2012.

It is thought the financial penalties will start at 20 euros and go up to 95 euros for each excess gramme over 120 grammes per kilometre – with the charges being applicable across a carmakers’ fleet.

As part of the overall mandatory target, an average of 130g/km must be achieved from improved engine technology and the rest through biofuels and more efficient gears, tyres and air-conditioning.

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