EU lawmakers reject slowing CO2 curbs on cars

BRUSSELS, Sept 25 - European Union lawmakers rejected delaying plans to limit carbon dioxide emissions from cars on Thursday, in a surprise backlash against easing the auto industry's burden in the fight against climate change.

The European Parliament's environment committee rejected a proposed phase-in of the European Commission's blue-print to cap CO2 emissions from new cars at 130 grams per km in 2012 across the fleet, compared with a current EU average of 158g.

The committee's vote could set parliament's final stance as it heads into negotiations with member nations to decide the binding targets.

(Reporting by Pete Harrison)