The other alternative is to do a deal with another manufacturer so they can “buy” a share of the extra C02 that the other manufacturer is permitted.

Mercedes have done something similar with Renault as they produce a lot less C02 per model than Mercedes.

Another option would be to do what Jaguar is doing and build a car like the CX75 which is a premium performance car but with a “clean” hybrid engine.

In order to reduce CO2 levels across the product line, I think they could have passed on the Cygnet, which is the antithesis of everything representative of the Aston brand – it’s a superficial, automotive appliance at best – in favor of a small, highly economical offering based on, say, the Mazda MX-5.

I called it the DBM. http://www.dr1665.com/2009/08/the-aston-martin-dbm/

I run a blog on Great British Sports Cars, (http://www.greatbritishsportscars.net/) and this is definitely not one. Aston Martin has to reduce the average C02 level of it’s cars and this is the reason behind making the Cygnet.

I’d be interested to hear your thoughts on what Aston Martin should do to meet these C02 levels though… Surely they could have done something better?!