ACEA

Eco-innovative technologies – A contribution to CO2-emission reductions from new cars

Major contributions

The European automotive industry is doing a lot to reduce CO2 emissions from cars. A large number of CO2-cutting technologies have been introduced into the markets up till now. And many more are to come. The European car manufacturers and the automotive suppliers work closely together to achieve further important results.

Complex challenge

Reducing CO2 emissions from cars is a complex challenge and involves improvements of the whole vehicle, not just the engine. And, in addition to car technology, also the driver, the choice of fuel and the quality of infrastructure are decisive to arrive at the best possible fuel-economy and hence lowest CO2 emissions of a car.

What are eco-innovations?

Eco-innovations are technologies or measures included in a vehicle that have the proven ability to reduce CO2 emissions per single vehicle – but which are not visible in the test-cycle that is used to measure CO2 emissions from vehicles.

Recognised by CO2 legislation

The new CO2 legislation recognizes the potential of eco-innovations in addition to tailpipe CO2 emission reductions. The legislation has defined that eco-innovations can account for up to 7 grammes of manufacturers’ CO2 fleet targets, provided they make a verified contribution.

Multiple innovations

The European automotive industry has identified multiple categories for eco-innovative car technologies: systems & components, running resistance, well-to-wheel efficiency, smart navigation and driver information. All categories contain numerous technology applications, from adaptive cruise-control and super efficient LED lights to robotised gearboxes and the storage and re-use of heat.

Important potential

Some of these examples are readily available today; others are still in the development phase. Some are very simple, many very complex and new. Some offer modest, others substantial CO2 reduction potential. All technologies can and should be credibly measured and monitored.

How should eco-innovations be recognised in practice?

Manufacturers ask the EU to approve eco-innovations

• In a transparent way to ensure that the CO2 reduction potential of eco-innovations is evaluated objectively
• Efficiently to speed up the process and avoid unnecessary administrative burden
• In a harmonised way, using the same assumptions, criteria, procedures and test methods across the EU

• Full ACEA CO2 dossier

last updated 06/10/2010

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