Daimler to be scrutinized over diesel emission standards

KUALA LUMPUR: Yet another diesel emission scandal has been brought to light. It is yet again a German car manufacturer that has been allegedly tampering with the emission standards. For the past two years, the German automaker, Daimler has been postulated to be indulged in the faulty activities. It is finally now when the German government has decided to take necessary action.

If the allegations are found to be true, a fine of EUR 3.75 billion will be imposed on the automaker. Andreas Scheuer, the German Transport Minister has asked Dieter Zetsche, the Daimler CEO for a meeting behind closed doors regarding diesel issue.

Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt (KBA) or Germany's Federal Motor Transport Authority, during the investigation, found that models like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the G-Class, and the Vito had the software that can alter emission rating. It is also speculated that around 750,000 vehicles may have been fitted with the tampering software. If found guilty, EUR 5,000 per car fine will be imposed on the automaker, said the minister.

The Vito with 1.6-litre turbo diesel engine is said to the first ones to fit with the software that breached regulations. KBA has signaled to recall all Vito vans that had the aforementioned engine. On the contrary, Daimler has appealed against the findings and said that they will go to every extent to clear their name. However, if the appeal failed, about 80,000 Vito units would be affected that are said to be fitted with emission tampering software.