200000 vehicles in Germany affected by latest VW findings-ministry

In addition to Volkswagen vehicles, Audi and Porsche models were also discovered using defeat devices to cheat on emissions.

The company has been unable halt the flow of bad news since mid-September, when the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said Volkswagen had installed software on 482,000 cars that enabled them to cheat on emissions tests for nitrogen oxide, a pollutant that contributes to smog and respiratory problems.

The German industrial giant triggered global outrage after admitting that 11 million of its diesel cars, including 2.8 million in Germany, were fitted with so-called defeat devices that covertly turn off pollution controls when the auto is being used.

In its report, the EPA specifically mentioned models including the 2015 Porsche Cayenne; the 2014 Volkswagen Touareg; and 2016 Audi A6 Quattro, A7 Quattro, A8, A8L, and Q5. The production and sales of the 2014-2016 diesels Cayenne SUV has also ceased. The cars were sold under the Volkswagen, Audi, SEAT and Skoda brands, most in Europe and none in the U.S. Based on this discovery, the company estimates that around 800,000 vehicles may be affected. “We all have an interest that everything at VW is turned over and reviewed”, Mr Dobrindt said, adding that the government wanted to force VW to pay the extra vehicle taxes that would be incurred by the higher Carbon dioxide emission levels.

The company told dealers in the United States and Canada on November 4 to stop selling cars from the 2013-2016 model years of VW and Audi with 3.0-liter engines. VW shares fell 9.5% to €100.45 after the latest revelations.

The embattled company also admitted Tuesday it set carbon dioxide emissions and fuel consumption figures too low when certifying about 800,000 vehicles.

Europe’s largest automaker has estimated that it is likely to incur $2.19 billion due to its new disclosure.

It said Volkswagen “will endeavor to clarify the further course of action as quickly as possible and ensure the correct Carbon dioxide classification for the vehicles affected” with the responsible authorities.

“VW has once again failed its obligation to comply with the law that protects clean air for all Americans”, Giles said in a statement. However, this new development leaves Volkswagen’s customers, investors, regulators, and legislators more unsure about the German automaker’s discretions.