Responding to recent media reports and campaigns, an SMMT spokesperson said:
“Industry is concerned that some criticism of diesel engines fails to distinguish between decades-old diesel technologies and today’s modern, clean, diesel engines. Recent coverage also overlooks the role of policymakers, infrastructure planning, consumer behaviour, and the many other areas of society that contribute to urban air quality issues.
“Vehicle manufacturers work tirelessly, and have invested over £1 billion, to reduce and eliminate emissions from diesel engines; vehicles being produced today feature filters that capture over 99% of particulates, resulting in engines that are the cleanest ever produced.”