European Commission proposes strict new auto emission standard by 2012, heavy fines for non-conforming fleets

The European Commission has proposed a 120 g/km emission standard for automobiles beginning in 2012, with a sliding scale of penalties for manufacturers who do not meet the standards.

The fines will range from 20 to 95 euros per gram over the 120 g/km standard, and multiplied across a carmaker’s fleet. The Commission expects to reach a 130 g/km standard through engine technology improvements alone, with the remainder coming from improvements in tires, gears and air-conditioning systems.

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