A new survey suggests that two-thirds of car owners are aware of an impending change to the Vehicle Registration Tax system, and more than half say it will encourage them to purchase a car with lower emissions.
However the majority of those surveyed were unaware of the details of the new VRT system.
The poll was conducted by the agency Red C for the Irish Taxation Institute to mark Tax Week 2008.
Red C surveyed 1,000 people this month to establish what the public knows about Government plans to change VRT and motor tax in order to influence purchasing behaviour.
The poll found that 59% believe the VRT change will encourage them to purchase lower emission vehicles.
It also concluded 65% of people who plan to buy a car in the next 12 months will be more likely to change to a car with lower emissions, as it would result in motor tax savings.
The ITI says the poll suggests the Government changes have been vindicated.
However it added that because two-thirds are unaware of the new scheme's details, the public needs to be educated if the environmental benefits are to be truly maximised.
