Leaded petrol ban starts concern over health effects of new additives

A motor industry trade body has claimed that the ban on leaded petrol due in January 2000 will put over five million cars at risk of engine damage. The claim is contested by car manufacturers and oil companies, which are confident that replacement additives will offer adequate protection. Meanwhile, important questions are being raised about the lack of legal controls over the introduction of new fuel additives - including a manganese-based product which has provoked fierce controversy in North America.