BMW Group vehicles are “officially” the cleanest premium cars sold here in the UK following independent research into CO2 emissions.
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The data, compiled by www.cleangreencars.co.uk, showed that, through its EfficientDynamics technology (which includes such items as stop-start, brake energy recovery and alternator engagement only when needed) the BMW brand has the most improved average CO2 emissions of any premium manufacturer, the automaker said.
Clean Green Cars last week said its latest data showed that Fiat and BMW’s Mini were the only “mainstream” manufacturers whose average tailpipe CO2 emissions were now under 140g/km, a target carmakers set themselves a decade ago in a voluntary agreement.
“Some manufacturers have delivered on their promise, but the vast majority have to raise their game significantly,” spokesman Jay Nagley said on behalf of the consumer website set up by a motoring journalist and an analyst to help UK buyers choose an environment-friendly car.
“Porsche has the most work to do: bottom of the league, with CO2 emissions that actually went up slightly in the first half of 2008.”
The report on average total model range emissions for car manufacturers found that from the period January 2008 to June 2008, BMW recorded an average of 161.64g/km. By comparison the model range averages for Audi and Mercedes were 177.36g/km and 192.85g/km respectively.
Lexus, which includes hybrids in its line, scored an average of 194.85g/km, while Jaguar topped 200g/km and Porsche 275.64g/km.
Considering percentage improvements for premium manufacturers over the same period, BMW improved average emissions by 11.34% – the best of the ‘premium’ manufacturers.
Audi by 5.78% and Mercedes 4.13%. Lexus and Jaguar improved 2.16% and 2.04% respectively, while Porsche actually increased average model range emissions by 0.63%.
‘Minimalism’ – the branding of BMW’s EfficientDynamics technology for the Mini range, delivered an average of 139.64g/km CO2 emissions for the period January 2008 to June 2008, a 9.44% year on year improvement. The brand was one of the top three manufacturers with the lowest average CO2 emissions during the period.
Nagley added: “The BMW and Mini model ranges have seen very significant improvements when it comes to CO2 emissions. The BMW [and the group] should be praised for its leading stance in this area. It’s proof that driving dynamics can go hand-in-hand with a green conscience.”
BMW said NOx storage capability within a catalytic converter would soon be offered on certain models in the near future.
“Engineers are already finalising drivetrain configurations to meet the likely EU6 legislation due to come into effect in 2014.”
