From The Conversation (10/12/24)…
Australians’ cars are typically larger, heavier and less efficient than in Europe – here’s why
Road transport is responsible for a substantial share of global carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. So reducing these emissions is a high priority.
In the European Union (EU), CO₂ emissions from new passenger cars have been regulated for more than 15 years. The range of policy measures includes mandatory CO₂ emission targets.
But Australia’s mandatory New Vehicle Efficiency Standard will only come in next year, without other supporting policy measures.
In our new research, my colleagues and I compared the two car fleets and examined their emissions in detail. We found Australian cars are typically larger, heavier and less efficient, producing 43% more emissions than their EU counterparts. The results demonstrate the vital role of well-designed, ambitious policies and regulations in driving down emissions.
What we did
Car emissions by country depends on many factors. These include the level of dependence on cars, travel behaviour, consumer preferences, marketing, car types and sizes, fuel efficiency requirements, purchase price, running costs and, importantly, government policies.
Policy levers range from financial incentives, taxes and regulations through to other measures such as information campaigns…