Three’s a crowd: OEMs dispute independent emissions tests

In light of the Volkswagen emissions scandal, numerous non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that specialise in vehicle emissions testing have been on the prowl, examining the performance of models from a wide range of OEMs.

Some industry experts believe other companies outside the Volkswagen Group could be guilty of using emissions control systems to rig test results, similar to the ‘defeat devices’ found on various VW models.

Recent tests carried out by Deutsche Umwelthilfe (DUH) indicate Renault’s Espace and the Opel Zafira emit higher levels of nitrogen oxide (NOx) than their certified levels. However, the OEMs are adamant that their vehicles comply with official legislation.