GM Daewoo plans cleaner-burning diesel car

GM Daewoo Auto and Technology is planning to produce a diesel sedan that meets strict environmental standards in the European Union, said Elizabeth Lowery, vice president of environment and energy at General Motors, yesterday. The model will come out in 2006, the same year GM Daewoo plans to complete construction of a factory in Gunsan that can mass produce diesel engines. The groundbreaking ceremony will be held soon, she said at an interview. The Korean government has temporarily allowed the sales of diesel sedans in 2005 that meet the standards of “Euro 3,” which is less strict than “Euro 4.” Starting 2006, the Korean government will tighten the standards to “Euro 4.” Ms. Lowery said that it is very disappointing that the Korean government is allowing the sales of diesel sedans that meet only the “Euro 3” standard. The move will harm the environment, she said. Introducing diesel sedans in Korea means oil refineries and car makers will have to forge a close partnership to produce less environmentally harmful diesel oils, she said. She said she checked the working environment of the Gunsan and Changwon factories during her latest visit. by Chang Chung-hoon