The Telegraph reports that European carmakers had failed to comply with a voluntary agreement they signed in 1998 to reduce emissions by 25% by 2008, and instead managed only a 13% reduction so far. Manufacturers of sports cars and SUV such as Porsche and Land Rover have stated that the proposals would devastate their future plans.
Mr Dimas said the five-year introduction period would give manufacturers time to invest in technology to make low-emission cars from lighter materials. However, industry experts have found that making the changes would add roughly $8,300 to the price of a car. Manufacturers would essentially be forced to move outside of Europe.