Brussels - Representatives from the European Parliament, EU states and the European Commission late Monday reached a compromise agreement to limit carbon dioxide emitted by new cars.
Under the deal, plans to limit the gas blamed for global warming would be phased in over several years, with 65 per cent of cars to meet the goal of releasing 120 grams or less of the pollutant per kilometre by 2012. By 2013, 75 per cent of vehicles would need to meet the target, with 80 per cent compliance by 2014 and 100 per cent by 2015.
The plan was greeted by industry allies, but called a step backward by some environmental activists.
The long-term goal is to limit emissions to 95 grams per kilometre by 2020.