FCA Tech Boss Denies Defeat Device Claims From German Authorities In EU Parliament

FCA chief technical officer Harald Wester addressed a European Parliament inquiry in Brussels, denying claims from German authorities that Fiat’s 500X diesel model has been using unauthorized software during emissions testing.

The claim originated from the German Federal Motor Transport Authority back in May, stating that the car’s engine management software switched off exhaust treatment systems after 22 minutes, thus allowing the diesel-powered 500X to pass the 20 minute test.

“The car model in question meets emission standards in the test and does not detect that it is being tested,” stated Wester while mentioning that EU legislation still allows for engine management software to perform adjustments meant to protect the engine itself.

Wester added that FCA welcomes next year’s new emissions tests, which should lead to “greater transparency for both consumers and the industry,” as reported by Autonews.

During his conversations with members of the panel, the FCA exec also said that EU legislation on car emissions should mirror the stricter US rules, or perhaps even become standardized on a global level.

German authorities, however are sticking to their story that FCA cheated and that the 500X did indeed have an unauthorized switch-off device.