Volkswagen’s stunning admission that it sold diesel-powered cars that intentionally faked emissions testing results has left many of their owners – who thought they were buying fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles – angry and feeling betrayed.
The deception could prove a major threat to Volkswagen’s reputation in the United States and could break the trust that the German automaker had cultivated with car owners over the years. It could also have lasting consequences for the future of diesel-powered technology championed by Volkswagen, which has been seeking to make a comeback in the United States.
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* Volkswagen’s reputation erodes as diesel emissions scandal widens* Sohn: What was Volkswagen thinking? * Cooper: VW brand on the line * VW unveils new Passat design for 2016 * VW rocked by emissions scandal as prosecutors come calling * For 7 years, VW software thwarted pollution regulations * VW scandal has TN officials fuming after giving millions in incentives * Volkswagen tells dealers to stop selling 2015 diesel cars * Cooper: VW’s alleged emissions ‘defeat device’ disheartening* VW could be fined $18 billion for cheating on emission rules* VW stock crashes after admitting it rigged U.S. emission tests* EPA: VW intentionally violates clean air standards
On Friday, the Environmental Protection Agency announced that it would order Volkswagen to recall nearly 500,000 vehicles in the U.S. because they were equipped with software that allowed them to evade emissions standards for reducing smog during testing. No recall has been ordered yet, however, until Volkswagen can outline how it intends to fix the problem.
But whatever the technological solution, it will most likely mean reducing the performance, drivability or fuel economy of cars to meet emission goals.