BMW denies emissions cheating as VW scandal widens
by Canadian Manufacturing.com Staff
Automaker also notes importance of diesel technology in combating emissions
RICHMOND HILL, Ont—BMW Group says its exhaust treatment systems “are active whether rolling on the test bench or driving on the road.”
Earlier this week, German magazine Auto Bild reported BMW X3 emissions test results 11-times legal levels.
In response, BMW denied the claims, saying, “We are not familiar with the test results mentioned by Auto Bild on 24 September concerning the emissions of a BMW X3 during a road test.”
“No specific details of the test have yet been provided and therefore we cannot explain these results. We are contacting the ICCT and asking for clarification of the test they carried out,” the company added.
BMW said it is committed to observing legal requirements in each country and fulfilling local testing requirements. It noted clear, binding specifications and processes are in place at all stages of development to avoid wrongdoing. The company said it is willing to discuss its testing procedures with relevant authorities as well as make its vehicles available for testing at any time.
Despite the VW scandal, the company also pointed to the importance of diesel engines in achieving carbon dioxide emissions targets.
“Policymakers worldwide, and in particular in the European Union, are setting tough standards for CO2 and other emissions. The 2020 targets in Europe can only be fulfilled through extensive use of modern diesel engines and further electrification,” BMW said.
The company said progress achieved so far in Europe is largely because of diesel technology, adding future cuts will not be feasible without diesel drive trains.
