Indian minister calls use of "gas guzzling" SUVs "criminal"; German automakers object

On Saturday, German automakers lashed out against some harsh and possibly inaccurate words uttered by India's environment and forests minister, Jairam Ramesh. Ramesh, speaking at a United Nations function in New Delhi, boldly stated that he favored removing "gas guzzling" SUVs from India's roads and claimed that the use of such vehicles should be considered "criminal." Ramesh even targeted some German automakers, which didn't go over well.

In its defense, the German Automotive Industry (GIA), represented by German Ambassador Thomas Mattussek, responded by stating that its technology in the field of engine development is, "far advanced in reducing both fuel consumption and fuel emissions." Mattussek also claimed:

The German industry is also proud to have some of the most sustainable car companies in the world who have pioneered CO2 emission cuts and have next generation fuel efficiency standards in engines. The German Automotive industry has been continuously progressing to secure a sustainable future with fuel saving engines, state of the art recycling techniques and greener production facilities.

Leading German Automotive Manufacturers are already engaged in developing ground breaking fuel efficiency standards which may define how cars of tomorrow may be conceptualized.

The German Ambassador closed with a shot back at the Indian minister: "It is very difficult to imagine that Mr. Jairam Ramesh, minister of environment & forests, has made such specific comments on fuel technology with reference to German Automotive Manufacturers."

While we're aware that gas-guzzling SUVs aren't the most planet-friendly type of vehicle and the world might be marginally cleaner if these behemoths didn't run on our roadways, calling their use "criminal" and zeroing in on German automakers is not an advisable course of action. Hat tip to evnow!

[Source: Times of India]