A new law has been put forward that could see transport planning bosses encouraged to cut carbon emission levels from vans over the next five years.
The European Commission wants to see a fleet average target of 175g CO2/km introduced for van and light commercial vehicle manufacturers by 2014.
It is part of a series of plans by European policymakers to help slash road transport emissions, but industry officials have questioned its viability.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders claimed the time span set for transition is unrealistic and will not allow the delivery of affordable products to market.
It suggested any new legislation should take account of the current economic climate, as well as the diversity of the sector.
Chief executive Paul Everitt said: "Vans are an integral part of the European economy and at a time of economic downturn and belt-tightening, businesses do not have the capacity to invest in new products."
Last month, the Freight Transport Association suggested that hauliers and transport bosses who succeed in cutting carbon emissions should be offered rewards for their efforts.
It said incentives such as cheaper tolls would encourage the logistics sector to make further inroads into reducing its carbon footprint.
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