Ford given emissions exemption

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Ford given emissions exemption
STEPHEN OTTLEY
July 16, 2010 - 8:10AM


Ford will be able to keep producing its current LPG-powered Falcon models until September, despite not meeting the new Euro 4 standards.
Local car maker Ford has been let off tough new vehicle emissions standards to save jobs.

The Federal Government has backed down from its strict emissions standards to protect Ford Australia from having to cut jobs.

The Victorian-based manufacturer – one of only three remaining local car makers - has been given an exemption from the new, stricter emissions regulations.

Despite not meeting the new Euro 4 standards that came into force on July 1, Ford will be able to keep producing its current LPG-powered Falcon models until September.

Sources have revealed that Ford approached the government as early as November last year requesting that Euro 4 regulations be pushed back industry wide by six months, despite being first announced in 2005.

The company reportedly told the minister it would be forced to slash jobs and close its Victorian factories if Euro 4 wasn’t delayed.

“The Government did not exempt Ford Australia from compliance with Australian Design Rules,” said a spokeswoman for Transport Minister Anthony Albanese.

“What we did, in light of the worst global financial crisis since the Great Depression, was to approve the supply of a limited number (up to 3300) of Euro 3 LPG vehicles to the Australian market, with strict conditions. Foremost in the Government’s considerations was the protection of Australian jobs during the global financial crisis.

“The Government is committed to Euro 4 standards and the automotive industry playing its part in tackling climate change and is working with Ford Australia to ensure its compliance as quickly as possible.”

Ford doesn’t have its Euro IV compliant liquid injection LPG engine, dubbed LPI, ready to go and won’t be on sale until next year.

The blue oval brand has also been forced to drop its V8 engine and the turbocharged six-cylinder engine for the Territory SUV because they don’t meet Euro IV; a new 5.0-litre V8 is being readied for the Falcon and is expected about October.

Ford Australia spokeswoman Sinead McAlary defended the action, saying the LPG Falcons were too important to drop from the line-up until the new model is ready.

“It’s such a big market for us and we’re not ready with our new LPI/LPG engine,” McAlary said. “Our intention is to build enough stock to see us through to next year.”

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