More motorists are buying diesel-powered cars.
The Motor Trade Association says about 18% of new cars sold so far this year, were diesel-powered, almost twice the level three years ago.
It says that means that despite all the high-tech fuel options available, diesel is the preferred alternative fuel.
The MTA says diesel-powered cars were once thought of as noisy and smelly, but recent developments mean they are almost indistinguishable from petrol-powered vehicles.
It says New Zealand may eventually Western Europe where diesel-powered cars account for about half of all sales.
