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CO2 taxes on cars 'spreading in Europe'

A new survey from the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA) shows that 'carbon taxing' of cars is a growing trend on the continent.

Fears over climate change have been a decisive factor in the introduction of CO2-linked levies for drivers in France, Spain, Finland and Ireland over the past year and a half.

This means that a total of 14 EU member states have such a system in place, charging motorists who drive highly-polluting vehicles.

While welcoming the reforms, ACEA expressed concern about the "widely varying systems" in different member states, saying that the differing policies might prove counter-productive.

"The European car industry urges EU governments to show more resolve in harmonising car taxation schemes," the body said in a statement.

"Only a harmonised tax scheme, however, will give the necessary clear market signal which will be decisive in achieving the desired cuts in CO2 emissions," ACEA secretary general Ivan Hodac added.

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