Earlier this year, the German automobile company Volkswagen underwent federal investigations determining that engine emission tests programmed in many of their Volkswagen, Porsche and Audi vehicles were intentionally programmed to give false readings. On Oct. 15, Volkswagen announced that they would be recalling 8.5 million vehicles in Europe, according to CNN Money. Since then, the company has also announced the recall of more than 500,000 vehicles in the U.S.
According to CNN, the emissions tests were programmed to read and display appropriate levels of diesel emission during testing. However, during normal usage, the investigated engines displayed nitrogen oxide levels as high as 40 times above the legal limits. As well as serving as an environmental pollutant, these high emission levels also increase risks of developing asthma and respiratory problems, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Martin Winterkorn, former Volkswagen CEO, resigned on Sept. 23 in light of the impending scandal, and was replaced by Matthias Muller, former CEO of the Porsche branch. Winterkorn said in his resignation statement that he was stunned at the misconduct displayed by the company.
“I am (resigning) in the interests of the company, even though I am not aware of any wrong doing on my part,” Winterkorn said. “Volkswagen needs a fresh start—also in terms of personnel. I am clearing the way for this fresh start with my resignation.”
Following the promotion, Muller issued a press release that emphasized his dedication to “implement the most stringent compliance” with government standards.
“My most urgent task is to win back trust for the Volkswagen Group—by leaving no stone unturned and with maximum transparency,” Muller said
Freshman Kayla Meeler said that, while her 2003 Volkswagen Beetle is not one of the affected models, she is astonished at the misdemeanors in the company’s management.
“With all of the economical problems already going on, why would you knowingly put something like that out there for millions of people to drive?” Meeler said. “Although, I’ve had tons of problems with my car since I’ve had it, so I … think it is good that Volkswagen was caught and embarrassed, because maybe now they will start focusing on making more quality cars.”
