A new van CO2 database has been launched by the Department for Transport.

The online database - the biggest of its kind in Europe – includes details of the CO2 emissions of all sub-3.5-tonne vans.

It allows users to search for new van models on the UK market and compare their CO2 emissions and the fuel consumption.

If everybody buying a new van bought the most fuel-efficient model in its class the average buyer could save up to 17% on both CO2 emissions and fuel costs, according to the DfT.

Launching the database at the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership's annual conference, transport minister Andrew Adonis said: "This database gives van buyers access to emissions and fuel consumption information that could well shape the van they choose, as well as enable them to cut emissions and save money.

The database can be accessed at www.businesslink.gov.uk/vanfueldata which also includes tips on how to choose the right van and how to save fuel or go straight to the database.