Carmakers ask Brussels for US-style loan

FT08/10/03
Concern over need to meet CO2 targets
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European carmakers yesterday became the latest industry grouping to ask for support as they said they would approach the European Commission about a 40bn euro loan to develop environmentally friendly products in response to a move by the US.

The US congress last weekend approved a 25bn US low-cost programme, mainly aimed at the big three Detroit manufacturers, to develop green vehicles and engines.

"We will approach the European Commission for a similar idea to the US." said Fiat CEO.The US loan has caused concern among German carmakers such as Volkswagen, which think it could discriminate(見分ける） against foreign manufacturers in the US.


"Other governments should take inspiration from this. Why only in the US. European commission should perhaps do the same"