BRUSSELS (AFP) - The European Commission will propose this week to set carbon dioxide targets for cars based on their weight as sought by German carmakers, although some key points still have to be ironed out, officials said.

Under plans from the Commission, new passenger cars would be required to emit on average no more than 120 grammes per kilometre travelled as of 2012, which would represent a cut of about 25 percent from current levels.

Automakers would be required to limit average emissions across their fleet to 130 grammes per kilometer by improving the technology they use.

A cut of a further 10 grammes will be sought through improvements to air-conditioning systems, tyre pressure monitoring and gear shift indicators, while the use of biofuels would also be stepped up.

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