The motor industry has doubled its spending on advertising greener vehicles, although the heaviest emitting models are still receiving substantial backing.

Research by the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership (LowCVP), shows that during 2007 the proportion of advertising revenue spent in national newspapers on vehicles in the lowest three VED bands doubled from 20% to 40% of total spend.

By contrast, advertising on larger and less efficient cars and vans in VED bands E and F fell by half.

However, around 20% of total budgets went on the highest emitting band G vehicles.

LowCVP director Greg Archer said: “Stronger promotion of the more fuel efficient models that are now becoming available is needed to encourage their sale.”