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CO2 based tax has already affected the average French car |
French car magazine Argus
has published a French car market report since 1953 that has never
shown negative figures. That is, from 1953 to 2007, the average car
sold in France was always larger, more powerful, with more engine
displacement and more expensive than the average car from the year
before. 2008 ended that trend.
According to Argus, the average French
car is now 2cm (3/4 in.) shorter, 40 kg (three percent) lighter, with
smaller engines (-58 cm³ or -3,5 percent). Another downward
move: the average price is also down to €18,962, which is €2,683 less
than the previous year; the same as in 2004. Argus offers two basic
reasons for these reductions: the bonus/malus tax system that
encourages automakers to sell less polluting (less powerful) cars and
the increase of fuel prices at the pump.
Source: Le Figaro
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