Not-so-clean diesel: EPA says VW software cheats on smog test
California and federal officials on Friday accused Volkswagen of thwarting air pollution tests on its diesel cars by giving the vehicles software that can tell when they’re being tested.
“Using a defeat device in cars to evade clean air standards is illegal and a threat to public health,” said Cynthia Giles, assistant administrator for the EPA’s office of enforcement and compliance assurance.
According to the two agencies, Volkswagen admitted to installing the defeat devices when confronted by government officials this month.
According to Volkswagen, the investigation also includes the U.S. Department of Justice.
Government officials on Friday sought to assure drivers that the cars remain safe — and legal — to drive and resell.