Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn Steps Down Amid Emission Scandal

Strategic Insights -

Volkswagen's top executive has resigned from his position following allegations of using "defeat device" software to evade US emissions tests. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) revealed that approximately 482,000 Volkswagen diesel cars in the US were equipped with the software, which circumvents the Clean Air Act. The issue affects four-cylinder engines sold in the US between 2009 and 2015.

Key Takeaways:

  • Volkswagen's CEO, Martin Winterkorn, submitted his resignation on September 23, amid the company's emission scandal.
  • The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that approximately 482,000 of VW's diesel cars in the US are equipped with "defeat device" software to evade emissions tests.
  • The issue affects four-cylinder engines sold in the US between 2009 and 2015, specifically Volkswagen or Audi cars.
  • Volkswagen has ordered those models not to be sold.
  • The company has admitted to using the software on nearly 11 million of its diesel cars across the world.
  • Winterkorn has denied any wrongdoing on his part, despite the company's admission of guilt.
  • The EPA had brought the issue to light, regulating Volkswagen to recall and modify the affected vehicles.
  • The company has faced intense scrutiny and criticism over its handling of the scandal.

Statistics:

  • 482,000: The approximate number of Volkswagen diesel cars in the US equipped with "defeat device" software.
  • 11 million: The number of Volkswagen diesel cars worldwide equipped with the same software.
  • 2009-2015: The period during which Volkswagen or Audi cars with four-cylinder engines were sold in the US, affected by the emission scandal.
  • 4: The number of cylinders affected by the issue.
  • 1: The million dollar or more fines that Volkswagen may faces for violating the Clean Air Act.

Sources:

  • United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
  • Volkswagen
  • Automobiles
  • Contify.com (distributor of G. D. Technologies content)
  • Uncover California (host of company and business content)