Germany wins extra time in campaign to soften EU car emissions law

(Reuters, 4 Oct 2013) Germany found unexpected allies on Friday in its campaign to protect its premium automakers, convincing EU diplomats to delay a vote on new carbon emissions limits to take effect from 2020.

The European Union agreed a deal in June to cut CO2 to 95 grams per kilometre (g/km) for all new EU cars from 2020, but Germany has lobbied to weaken the measure.

Analysts say it would be a major challenge for German carmakers Daimler and BMW.

At a closed-door meeting of EU member states on Friday, Germany was backed by Britain, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia in calling for more time, EU sources said on condition of anonymity.

"They want extra time to consider suggested changes," one source said, referring to a German plan for a phase-in of the proposed EU law.

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Reuters, 4 Oct 2013: Germany wins extra time in campaign to soften EU car emissions law