Auto makers sign green MOU

A landmark agreement on climate change action was signed by the

and the

yesterday.

Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), automobile manufacturers have voluntarily agreed to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from new vehicles in Canada so that by 2010, annual emissions reductions will reach 5.3 megatonnes.

"This is a good deal for the economy, the environment and consumers. Ultimately, it's a deal that all Canadians will benefit from as the new technologies needed to reach this target come on the market," said the Honourable R. John Efford, Minister of Natural Resources Canada.

"I'm particularly proud that we've reached this historic agreement voluntarily, which clearly shows the automobile industry is prepared to do its part to address climate change," continued Minister Efford.

To achieve the Government's GHG-reduction objective for the sector, the Canadian automobile industry will offer and promote a wide variety of fuel-saving vehicle technologies, including hybrid powertrains, cylinder deactivation technology, advanced diesel technology, and emerging technologies.

The industry will also continue to pursue design and engineering improvements without compromising vehicle-occupant safety, while also bringing forward technologies that promote more fuel-efficient driving behaviour.