The EEA data, which covers 1.1 million new vans sold in the EU, shows that the average van sold emitted 180.3g/km – slightly higher than the 175g/km target which is to be met by 2017 and 18.5% above the limit of 147g/km by 2020.

In response, the EEA says that van makers will need to use new technologies including electric or hybrid engines to meet the targets.

Hans Bruyninckx, EEA executive director, said: ‘To cut emissions significantly, manufacturers will need to improve the technology of their vehicles and sell more efficient models. The good news is that there is huge potential for using new technologies which are well-suited to the way vans are used, including electric or hybrid vehicle technology.’

The data shows that diesel vehicles represent 97% of the newly registered vehicle fleet, while just over 1% used LPG or NG. These vehicles had on average 10 to 15% lower emissions than diesel vans. Pure electric vehicles represent 0.5% of the vehicles sold.

The EEA also found that the average van sold in Cyprus had the lowest carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions per kilometre (141g/km). At the other end of the scale, emissions were 43% higher for the average van sold in Slovakia (201g/km).

This is the first time such data have been published by the EEA. The data are provisional and subject to confirmation, final figures will be available by the end of the year.