Those wishing to benefit from cash savings to buy a new car have a month left to take advantage of the government’s hugely successful car scrappage scheme.

Almost 290,000 new cars have been registered through the car scrappage scheme according to the latest statistics from the SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders). 38 manufacturers have taken part in the scheme, covering all the major car brands.

Having been announced in the government’s budget early last year, it provides a cash discount of £2,000 for customers who trade in a car older than ten years when buying a new model.

As well as boosting the motor industry, the scheme has helped reduce Britain’s carbon footprint by putting cleaner, more environmentally friendly cars on the road to replace more polluting older models.

According to the SMMT, new cars bought through the scheme emit on average 10.9% less carbon than the vehicles they replace. Additionally, up to 85% of materials from the scrapped cars can be recycled.

The scheme was launched on 18 May 2009 and will last until the end of February.