Brussels is taking further steps to curb atmospheric pollution caused by emissions of nitrogen oxide and other harmful particles by cars. The European Parliament has adopted two Proposals – called Euro 5 and Euro 6 – with the objective of drastically reducing the maximum permitted limits of polluting emissions for new vehicles, including vans. The Euro 5 norm – whose entry into force is planned for 2009 in substitution of the existing Euro 4 – provides for an 80% reduction of emissions for all diesel engines, SUVs and monovolumes up to 7 passengers; from 2014 onwards, Euro 6 will introduce a further reduction, also thanks to technological progress and research on particle filters of the third generation. “The Euro 5 and Euro 6 norms are important for the improvement of the environmental performance of vehicles; they also permit the European car industry to maintain its current competitive position”, said EU Commissioner for Business and Industry Gunther Verheugen, commenting on the decision of the European Parliament”.
