16 August 2005

Work to improve New Zealand's vehicle fleet

Improving the efficiency of New Zealand's vehicle fleet is a priority for government says Transport Minister Pete Hodgson.

As reported in today's New Zealand Herald, the Ministry of Transport is leading work encouraging the uptake of more efficient vehicles as well as ways to improve vehicle safety and to reduce emissions.

"This is about improving the choice of more economic, safer and less polluting vehicles available for New Zealand's drivers, particularly from used imports. More efficient vehicles help reduce costs at the pump, safer vehicles reduce the risk and severity of crash injuries and cleaner vehicles help reduce the health and environmental impacts of driving," said Pete Hodgson.

"One option for encouraging the uptake of more efficient vehicles will be the introduction of fuel efficiency labelling at the point of sale. This will enable people to make their own informed choice about the efficiency and running costs of the vehicle they choose to buy."

Cabinet will consider policy options after the election to accelerate the uptake of efficiency, safety and emissions technologies. While no decisions have yet been made, these may include incentives, standards and public education initiatives so that drivers can make better informed choices. Polices will need to take into account the social and economic aspects of improving vehicle performance in these areas and the need to accommodate classic cars.

ENDS

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