Brussels, 26/09/2000 (Agence Europe) - Given the recent explosion in fuel prices and the rekindled debate on EU energy supplies, the European Commission points out that it launched, in April this year, a research project for EUR 5.2 million on lightweight composite materials in the aim of producing a prototype car travelling 100 km on just one litre of diesel fuel by 2004. Half of the spending is covered by the Community budget, the rest being provided by partners including the automobile manufacturer, Volkswagen. By making the vehicle 40% lighter, the fall in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions would be significant. Commissioner Philippe Busquin had recalled, a few days ago, that the Commission supports many projects aimed at diversifying energy sources and reducing greenhouse gas emissions (see EUROPE of 16 September, p.11).