THE new Nissan Primera will have a built-in emissions self-check system that will allow fleets to continually monitor the vehicles' 'green' credentials. An on-board diagnostics system will warn drivers if emissions are exceeding set European standards with the technology detecting any components or system deterioration which might impact on emission levels.

The system detects even a momentary increase in emissions with the driver being alerted and a record made in the engine management system. If the fault persists, an indicator light remains on until it has been investigated and resolved by a Nissan dealer.

The new Primera goes on sale on September 1. A new 1.8-litre petrol engine will join the present engine line-up in the new line-up, with the engine claimed to be one of the cleanest petrol units in its class: it exceeds European legislation emission levels of harmful hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides not due to come into force until 2005.