By DPA,
Brussels : Member states of the European Union (EU) have reached a compromise agreement to limit carbon dioxide emissions of new cars.
Under the deal, reached late Monday, plans to limit the gas blamed for global warming would be phased in over several years, with 65 percent of cars to meet the goal of releasing 120 grams or less of the pollutant per kilometre by 2012.
By 2013, 75 percent of vehicles would need to meet the target, with 80 percent compliance by 2014 and 100 percent 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.
Carmakers would be fined for failure to meet the targets, with the fines increasing for each gram of carbon dioxide over the limit.
The agreement must still be approved by the European Parliament and the 27 member states.
Environment ministers from the member states are to discuss the plan at their meeting Thursday and Friday.