Brussels, 03/11/2008 (Agence Europe) - Ambassadors from the 27 member states reached consensus on Friday 31 October on a draft directive to make European automobile manufacturers reduce the overall level of emissions from the new cars they make (EUROPE 9766). Under the terms of this consensus, the cut off date for bringing the average level of these emissions down to 130 grams/km (as opposed to the current level of 158 grams) through engine technology alone will be 2015, three years later than the European Commission proposed. This is a result of the economic crisis and the 27 agreed to allow a grace period and also agreeing that the initial reduction only affects 65% and not 60% of a manufacturer's fleet and 100% by 2015. A long term objective of 95g by 2020 was also accepted. This consensus, complies with the French presidency proposed compromise and is close to that of parliament's industry committee vote (but way below that sought by the environment committee). It was also recognised as an acceptable basis for negotiating with parliament. Some delegations (United Kingdom, Netherlands, Italy and Germany) still have misgivings about what amount of financial penalties should be set for each gram that goes above the objective. (A.N./trans.r.h)