Germany today took exception to Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh’s remarks over sports utility vehicles (SUVs) like BMW being bad emitters, saying German auto technology was far advanced in reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
“It is difficult to imagine that Jairam Ramesh, minister of environment & forests, made such specific comments on fuel technology, with reference to German automotive manufacturers,” German Ambassador Thomas Matussek said. Launching a strong defence, he said the German automotive industry had the “most outstanding expertise” in the area of engine development and its technology was “far advanced in reducing both fuel consumption and fuel emissions.”
“The German industry is also proud to have some of the most sustainable car companies in the world, which have pioneered CO2 emission cuts and next generation fuel efficiency standards in engines,” Matussek added.
At a United Nations function yesterday, Ramesh strongly favoured taking “gas guzzling” SUVs off Indian roads, saying they emitted more carbons.
