16:47 22 September 2015
The US Environmental Protection Agency has revealed that Volkswagen faces a criminal investigation after it rigged diesel vehicles to pass US emission tests. The brand is facing up to $18billion in fines after it has admitted that up to 11 million of its cars could have cheated their way through worldwide standards, including Britain and Europe.
Britain’s Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin has already called for investigation into the matter. “We are closely monitoring the situation and have been pushing for action at a European level for more accurate tests that reflect driving on the road.
"It’s vital that the public has confidence in vehicle emissions tests and I am calling for the European Commission to investigate this issue as a matter of urgency."
US head of VW, Michael Horn has admitted last night that the company has been dishonest.
"Our company was dishonest with the EPA, and the California Air Resources Board and with all all of you.
"And in my German words: We have totally screwed up.
"We must fix the cars to prevent his from ever happening again and we have to make this right.
"This kind of behaviour is totally inconsistent with our qualities."