Renault has flatly denied its cars have software designed to trick anti-pollution technology, following the decision by France’s anti-fraud office (DGCCRF) to refer the automaker to the prosecutor.
French Finance and Industry Ministers, Michel Sapin and Christophe Sirugue said the DGCCRF had now finished its Renault engine inquiries, but that the investigations also drew in 12 other automakers and their NOx technologies.
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“This procedure is part of a wider investigation into NOx practices concerning 12 companies selling diesel vehicles in France,” said a Finance Ministry statement. “In the course of its investigations, the DGCCRF used test results from UTAC (Union Technique de L’Automobile du Motocycle and du Cycle)) and IFPEN (IFP Energies Nouvelles), as well as documents seized during a search at the manufacturer’s location and from an interview with representatives of the business.
“A report detailing the detailed results of its inquiries has been forwarded to the Nanterre Prosecutor. It is now up to the legal process to proceed with any action for these alleged breaches. Moreover, the DGCCRF is continuing its inquiries. In this instance, investigations concerning other manufacturers are still ongoing.”
Earlier this year, Renault said an Independent Technical Commission set up by the French government to evaluate whether any software defeat devices had been installed on numerous vehicles, had not found anything untoward.
“Groupe Renault reasserts its determination to enforce its rights to defend the company’s corporate interest, as well as its employees and shareholders,” said a statement from the automaker. “In this respect, the Group reminds [restates] its constant position:
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By GlobalData. Renault complies with French and European regulations.
. Renault vehicles are all and have always been homologated in accordance with the laws and regulations. They are compliant with the applicable standards.
. Renault vehicles are not equipped with cheating software affecting anti-pollution systems.
. The States, European Commission, Regulation Authorities and automotive manufacturers all share the opinion the requirements of the applicable regulations need to be strengthened. This is the purpose of the future Euro6d Regulation.
. Groupe Renault reminds [restates] in March 2016 it submitted to the panel of the Independent Technical Commission a complete nitrogen oxide (NOx) emission reduction plan for its Euro6b diesel vehicles in customer use, which has been deemed transparent, satisfactory and credible.”
A spokeswoman for the DGCCRF in Paris was not immediately able to confirm to just-auto the identity of the other manufacturers in its investigation.
