Anyone buying a new car will be able to assess how environmentally friendly a vehicle is through new colour-coded labels, which were unveiled today by UK Transport Secretary Alistair Darling.

The fuel efficiency labels, which are similar to those currently displayed on fridges and other white goods, will help get across information to car buyers on how they can save money and help the environment.

All 42 car brands in the UK have signed up to the introduction of the voluntary labelling scheme, and the label is due to be in all UK car showrooms by 1 September.

As well as highlighting the fuel efficiency of every new car on sale, the labels also contain information on how much motorists can expect to pay in fuel bills in a typical year for a particular car, and whether the car qualifies for a reduction in Vehicle Excise Duty.

Speaking at the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership Annual Conference, Alistair Darling said:

“I am delighted to launch this vehicle labelling scheme today. These colour-coded labels will allow people to see at a glance just how fuel-efficient a particular vehicle is, and - critically - how it compares with other models. The labels can also display the VED (tax disc) band that the car is in, which will enable motorists to recognise instantly cars which benefit from lower rates.

“This shows the UK Government’s commitment to tackling climate change. It shows what can be done when Government, industry and other stakeholders work in partnership to achieve shared goals. The labels will send a clear message to motorists that they can make a real difference by choosing clean, fuel-efficient cars.”

Original press release: DARLING UNVEILS CLEANER VEHICLE LABELLING SCHEME (UK Department for Transport)