Car manufacturers' efforts to reduce the environmental impact of their vehicles appear to be succeeding.
According to research by DrivenData, average emissions from cars in the UK are now 170.75g/km CO2.
This is 5.6 per cent down on the amount recorded a year ago, when the figure stood at 180.90g/km.
Daniel Stas, spokesman for DrivenData, welcomed the findings, as the auto sector has collectively cut average carbon emissions at a faster rate in the last 12 months than in previous years.
However, he said more needs to be done to ensure the environmental impact of motoring is reduced, such as rolling out an alternative fuel recharging network across Britain.
"Much will depend on the emergence of plug-in hybrids and EVs," Mr Stas commented.
This comes after the government confirmed that motorists will be able to obtain a Plug-In Car Grant from January 2011.
Transport secretary Philip Hammond said drivers can receive up to £5,000 if they invest in an eco-friendly vehicle such as a plug-in hybrid.
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