New Mexico AG joins multi-state Volkswagen investigation

The scandal erupted after revelations that software on some VW and Audi diesel vehicles was programmed to turn the emission control system on when the vehicle was undergoing a routine emission test, but turn the system off when the testing equipment was disconnected.

As part of the investigation, the attorney generals will be sending subpoenas to Volkswagen.

Many states will review the matter through both their consumer protection and environmental protection divisions, the spokeswoman said. New York’s attorney general previously said he was investigating Volkswagen.

“This investigation will determine whether deceptive trade practices were used to convince consumers that their cars were environmentally friendly, when they weren’t”, Attorney General Ken Paxton said.

Schneiderman announced plans Tuesday to investigate Volkswagen AG after reports that the automaker installed software to circumvent emissions standards in violation of the Clean Air Act.

This announcement came one day after Martin Winterkorn resigned as CEO of Volksvagen.

It now faces a criminal investigation in the U.S. and further probes in countries including Germany, France and South Korea.

Jeannine Ginivan, a Volkswagen spokeswoman, didn’t immediately return a call and e-mail seeking comment.

A class-action lawsuit has been filed on behalf of anyone who bought diesel-engine Volkswagens in Iowa. The attorney general for Washington, DC, is also included in the group, she said.