The Minister of Transport has replied to submissions made by various parties, to defer or change the next stages of Emission Standards for Imported cars. These are to be in 2010 for diesels, and 2012 for Gasoline. Basically, the Minister has refused to consider any alteration whatsoever. This is a disappointment to all, I am sure. Maybe time for ALL of you to make your feelings known to your local MP.
Statement From the Ministers Office Reads:
28 August 2009 Media Statement
NO DELAY TO VEHICLE EMISSIONS STANDARDS
Transport Minister Steven Joyce today announced that after careful consideration, the government has decided the requirements for used diesel vehicles to meet minimum emissions standards set out in the 2007 Vehicle Exhaust Emissions Rule (Emissions Rule) will not be delayed. From January 2010, used diesel vehicles will need to meet a standard known as Japan 05 for harmful exhaust emissions. Used vehicle importers had called for the implementation of this standard to be delayed to improve flagging sales. “Emissions standards are important for ensuring we are in step with the rest of the world in reducing harmful exhaust emissions,” says Mr Joyce.
“The government has received correspondence both for and against this issue, with new vehicle importers and vehicle user representatives favouring the current timetable,” says Mr Joyce. “On balance, and to provide certainty to the industry as a whole, we have decided not to delay the existing timetable. This will retain the current balance of responsibility for harmful emissions between new and used vehicle importers. “I have considerable sympathy for the motor vehicle industry as a whole at this time. That is one reason why the government will not be advancing the previously proposed vehicle fuel economy standard.”
Media contact: Anita Ferguson 021 243 1623
Any discussion may be directed to:
John Davies
021-928 924 / (09) 411-7425
john@autohub.co.nz