International Agencies Launch 50% Global Fuel Economy Plan at Geneva Motor Show - VIDEO ENHANCED

LONDON - February 28, 2009: Global automobile fuel use is projected to more than double by 2050. To counter unsustainable CO2 emissions and energy insecurity, four major international organisations will launch the Global Fuel Economy Initiative (GFEI) at the Geneva Motor Show. It is a “50 by 50” effort calling for cars worldwide to be made 50% more fuel efficient by 2050, along with interim targets.

The initiative is being launched by a partnership of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), International Energy Agency (IEA), International Transport Forum (ITF) and FIA Foundation*.

The ’50 by 50’ GFEI report will also set out ways for the automotive sector to achieve large reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and oil use through lower fuel consumption.

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There can be no doubt about the scale of the global challenge we face, to address the issue of man-made climate change, and in particular, the role which transport plays within that. With a global car fleet predicted to triple by 2050 - over 80% of that in the developing world -- and now, with a global economy facing huge difficulties, we have to find a way to reconcile legitimate aspirations for mobility, an ambitious reduction in CO2 from cars worldwide, and global economic recovery.

We believe that the findings of this report are extremely significant in addressing that challenge. A move across the global fleet towards far better fuel economy at a scale which is already technically achievable, could save over 6 billion barrels of oil per year by 2050, and close to half of CO2 emissions from cars, as well as generate significant local air pollution benefits - and all using existing, cost-effective technologies. This is simply too good to ignore.

We have been working in partnership as the Global Fuel Economy Initiative for some months, and are now launching the 50by50 challenge, to take these ideas forward.

Our explicit objective is to promote further research, discussion and action to improve fuel economy worldwide. We intend that this work will be intensely practical, and focused on making a real difference - from working with governments in developing policies to encourage fuel economy improvement for vehicles produced or sold in their countries, to supporting regional awareness initiatives that provide consumers and decision makers with the information they need to make informed choices.

When: 4 March 2009, 2.15pm-2.45 (CET).
Where: Geneva Motor Show, Palexpo Conference Centre, Room G