So, you thought that the Volkswagen emissions scandal was pretty much over? Guess again! The German automaker has confirmed a series of reports, which suggested that Audi vehicles might be equipped with software that could distort emissions during tests in order to make them appear more eco-friendly than they actually are. The software was implemented in cars with automatic transmission systems, which would modify gear shifting patterns in a way that lowered carbon dioxide and nitric oxide emissions. According to Volkswagen, the transmission was designed to adapt based solely on the driving conditions. It shouldn’t be too surprising that the company decided to come clean about Audi cars, especially given the intense scrutiny that it faces.
In light of this, sources indicate that the US Environmental Protection Agency has already started an investigation into Audi regarding the software, and VW engineers might have some explaining to do in the near future. Apparently, Audi “has made available technical information” about the software in question to Germany’s Federal Motor Vehicle Authority KBA, which is currently investigating the matter as well. At the time of writing, Volkswagen has not identified the exact Audi models that are affected by the software, but everything seems to point to “top sedans and sport-utility vehicles,” including both gasoline and diesel-powered cars.
