Green car labels go live

From today, people buying a new car will be able to tell how environmentally friendly a vehicle is as new colour coded labels start to appear in car showrooms.

The fuel efficiency labels - announced by Alistair Darling earlier this year - are similar to those currently displayed on fridges and other white goods. They help get a variety of information across to consumers, such as how fuel efficient a particular vehicle is, how much motorists can expect to pay in fuel bills, and whether it qualifies for a reduction in Vehicle Excise Duty.

Showrooms in Guildford are leading the way in displaying the labels, and Transport Minister Stephen Ladyman was in the area today to see the first ones on display.

Speaking from Guildford, Stephen Ladyman MP said: "Consumers will now be in a better position to consider the environmental impacts of different cars and to make an informed decision on which one to choose.

“Motorists can make a real difference to the environment as well as to their pockets by choosing the cleanest, most fuel efficient models. I would urge anyone thinking of buying a new car to watch out for the labels - coming to your local showroom soon."

All major car brands in the UK have signed up to the introduction of the voluntary labelling scheme. The label is due to appear in all UK car showrooms by 1 September.