EU car pollution laws have improved UK's air quality, say carmakers

New Euro 6 standards will eliminate exhaust pollutants, says industry facing criticism over 'major cancer risk' from diesel fumes

Meeting strict new EU pollution standards has added 1,500 to the cost of every new vehicle, say carmakers who claim that because of European legislation to cut tailpipe pollution, Britain's air quality is better now than it has been for centuries.

"New European emission limits, which apply to all new cars sold from this week, have the potential to all but eliminate exhaust pollutants that impact air quality," said Mike Hawes, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).