Volkswagen affair to the investigation of pollution software – Clubic

The German automaker was convicted of cheating by developing an algorithm included in embedded software, detecting some anti-pollution tests. Volkswagen was able to believe, wrongly, that several of its models were few pollutants.

Volkswagen acknowledges having developed and installed on several of its diesel car models, a system to thwart some tests pollution. An algorithm has been inserted in embedded software for this specific purpose. When authorized agencies were operating hazard tests, this part of the software is activated and launched a mode to temporarily limit releases.

The US authorities Environmental Protection conducted parallel tests ( .pdf) and have realized the deception. After being confronted with a significant difference in results between the tests, the German brand was forced to recognize his actions.

In total, no fewer than 482,000 vehicles circulating in the US (11 million in the world) are affected by this fraud. The Jetta, Beetle, Audi A3, Golf all the period 2009 to 2015 as well as the Passat (2014 to 2015) embark this modified software. Because of the scope of the maneuver, Volkswagen risk of having to pay a record fine of up to € 16 billion.

Among the models involved in cheating, we find the Beetle, Jetta, the Audi A3, the Golf and Passat diesel versions.

These findings appear in the United States are born anxiety in Europe but also in Asia, the territories in which the group operates. In Germany, extensive testing will be conducted on all Volkswagen models. The country’s authorities have, however, wished to recall that the problems did not affect the intrinsic quality of the cars of the brand but only diesel models.

In France, the finance minister has called for a European investigation to be conducted . Michel Sapin also wants that attention can be given to all car manufacturers, including French.

In South Korea, a survey will be quickly conducted by the authorities. Between 4000 and 5000 Volkswagen and Audi diesel vehicles should be inspected. In cases where independent tests prove once again cheating the manufacturer, vehicles could be programmed reminders.

Also read