France’s environment ministry unveiled this week a system of green taxes on gas-guzzling cars and bonuses for cleaner vehicles, as part of a nationwide strategy to slash global warming emissions.

From January 1, any driver who buys a new car emitting more than 160 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometer will be charged a once-off penalty of up to 2,600 euros (US$3,800).

Penalties will start at 200 euros, rising to 750 for emissions above 166 grams, and 1,600 euros above 200 grams. The top tax bracket is set to concern one percent of all cars, those spewing out more than 250 grams of carbon dioxide, the ministry said.