Renault Is The Latest Manufacturer To Be Dragged Into The Emissions Scandal

It’s probably safe to assume that every manufacturer that uses diesel engines is getting a little nervous right now. Following Volkswagen’s admission that it faked emissions tests for its diesel engines, regulators have been checking to see if anyone else has been duping tests. Now, DUH (the German Environmental Agency) is pointing the finger at Renault, specifically its 1.6-litre diesel engine found in the Espace.

DUH reports that the Renault Espace diesel was recorded emitting 25 times more nitrogen oxide than the current Euro-6 limit allows. The inspections were undertaken using new European test cycles in five separate tests with a warm engine.

DUH believes that the current legislature in place in Europe makes it too easy for manufacturers to get away with duping consumers. In its statement, DUH quoted Axel Freidrich, co-founder of the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), saying “[we] need a comprehensive reorganisation of the system, in which mandatory regular controls on the street are integrated.” The ICCT wants emissions testing to take place in real world conditions, with customer cars being checked rather than those supplied by manufacturers.

Renault has so far not commented on the news, however it’s no surprise to see more manufacturers being dragged into the scandal. The big question is: how many more engines will be found to have illegal emissions levels? Furthermore, if it’s as widespread as we all suspect, how will it affect manufacturers that don’t have the resources of VW to compensate customers and pay fines? This story won’t go away any time soon, of that we can be sure.