BMW's South Korean subsidiary has received a hefty fine for 'sloppy certification' documents covering engine emissions for 28 models according to Korean media.
The Korea Herald reported that the highest-ever fine for a single automaker of 60.8 billion won (around $54.5m) also covered the sales of models containing 'unapproved auto parts', according to the Korean Ministry of Environment.
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The report said that BMW submitted 'underrated emissions' results for 81,483 units across 28 models (certified between 2012 and early 2015).
The ministry said it is expected to cancel certification of the concerned models in mid-November, after holding a hearing.
The automaker has also been imposed a penalty of 2.9 billion won for selling 7,781 vehicles across 11 models made without modification certification or modification reporting between 2013 and 2016, the ministry said.
The report also suggested that due to the latest findings, BMW Korea has voluntarily suspended sales of seven models: BMW M4 Convertible, BMW M4 Coupe, BMW M6 Grand Coupe, BMW M6 Coupe, BMW X1 xDrive 18d, Mini Copper S Convertible, Mini Copper S.
"This issue is limited solely to irregularities in certification documents. There are no technical or safety issues with the vehicles," a BMW Korea spokesperson told the Herald.
The report added that Mercedes-Benz Korea and Porsche were also levied 2.9 billion and 7.8 billion won, respectively, for importing and selling cars without modification certification.
