RENAULT chairman Louis Schweitzer has taken over as president of the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA) with a vow to focus on tackling carbon dioxide emissions and improving road safety.

The appointment, which was effective from January 1, is part of the association's tradition of rotating presidencies. He succeeded PSA Peugeot-Citroen chairman Jean-Martin Folz. ACEA was established in 1991 and represents major European car manufacturers in 13 countries.

Schweitzer said: 'I am very pleased and honoured to be the next ACEA president. In line with my predecessor and with the support of the ACEA secretariat, I will be working this year with my colleagues on pursuing the implementation of the European distribution system, its extension to the new EU countries and the harmonisation of international technical regulations.

'But our efforts will also be dedicated to the environment with an emphasis on carbon dioxide emissions, and to road safety, with the protection of both pedestrians and passengers.

'These issues are important and challenging. I am confident that we will address them by maintaining a constructive relationship with the EU institutions, so that we will actively contribute to finding the best solutions.'