Volkswagen has admitted that select Audi models with automatic transmissions have software which can distort emissions when they are being tested, Reuters reports.
Last week, a report by German publication Bild am Sonntag revealed that the Californian Air Resources Board (CARB) discovered a new ‘cheat device’ on an old Audi model. This device was triggered if the steering wheel was not turned by more than 15 degrees, indicating a possible emissions testing scenario.
If this was to happen, software would be triggered telling the transmission to shift gears quicker and in a way to lower CO2 emissions and nitric oxides.
In a statement, Volkswagen said “Audi has explained the technical backgrounds of adaptive shift programs to the Federal Motor Vehicle Authority KBA and has made available technical information. In normal use, these adaptive systems support the driver by adjusting the gear-shifting points to best adapt to each driving situation.”
It is reported that the Environmental Protection Agency and CARB are currently further investigating the matter and the U.S. government is deciding whether such a system can be considered as a defeat device for petrol-powered vehicles.
Yesterday, it was revealed that Audi chief executive Rupert Stadler would be questioned by a U.S. law firm about the software.
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