As you probably know, Volkswagen admitted to using special software to game the emission tests in its diesel cars sold in the United States. When tested, cars would show legal emission levels, but during regular driving, they would have much higher emissions, in some cases as much as 40 times the permissible level.
EPA has threatened to impose fines up to 18 billion dollars.
Justice Department started a criminal investigation.
Reuters reported that according to EPA, Volkswagen initially denied it was trying to game the inspections, and claimed higher emissions where due to "various technical issues and unexpected in-use conditions.”
After EPA threatened to withhold certification for its 2016 models, Volkswagen admitted they gamed the tests. Volkswagen management said it was "deeply sorry" for the breach of trust, and promised full cooperation with German authorities.
In the meantime, EPA said they would test cars made by other automakers to see if similar deception took place.
We will keep you posted as the story unfolds.