The Australian infatuation with SUVs is pushing national vehicle emissions through the roof.
Aussies generate more grams of carbon per kilometre than Europe and the United States, according to data from the National Transport Commission.
We emit 45% more carbon-intensive emissions than Europe, with our SUVs contributing to the 171.5 grams per kilometre, versus their 118.5g/km.
The US, with a current population of around 325.7 million, emits 141g/km.
Our average emissions intensity has increased 2.3%, with roughly 90% of all vehicles sold in 2016 made by just 15 manufacturers, including Audi which showed the lowest corporate average emissions intensity of 144 g/km juxtaposing Holden with the highest at 222 g/km, NTC data reports.
VFACTS data from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries shows medium SUVs, regularly one of the most popular market segments, has increased 2018 sales by 12.5% to 85,406 for an 18% market share. Large SUVs have still sold 53,841 units in 2018, only down on 2017.
There has also been a significant decline in the number of “Green Car” models, emitting less than 120g/km, available on the market, dropping from 72 models in 2015 to just 51 in 2016.
Other factors the NTC includes are a lower proportion of diesel-powered engines, despite the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger being the two most popular -selling vehicles in 2017.
It also registers the lack of government incentives on low emission vehicles and relatively lower fuel price, especially compared with the United Kingdom where the 2016 top five best-sellers were small cars.
Federal minister for ubran infrastructure Paul Fletcher says the Turnbull government has “not reached a position” on the country’s emissions footprint.
“We will take the necessary time to get this right. Any decision will place savings for Australians front and centre,” he says.
Join the conversation