Volkwagen could been fined upto $18 billion for manipulating emission tests in America. They apparently used a “defeat device” in certain diesel cars that were designed to reduce emissions only if the car was being tested. What’s the problem? Diesel cars have become more popular worldwide recently, as engines have evolved. Diesel engines use more compression and as a fuel diesel can provide greater economy (30% more distance driven than for petrol). But it’s a more “dirty” fuel, in that it produces more Nitrogen Oxides, or NOx. (But apparently, less carbon monoxide). NOx is responsible for smog, so the US in particular is very stringent on NOx emission norms. Diesel engines used to be noisy and rattled a lot, but changes in engine design ensured that they ran smoother and had lower emissions, while retaining great fuel efficiency. But VW apparently couldn’t cut the emissions enough to have good performance and fuel efficiency, so they cheated.… (Read On…)
[via Capital Mind » Capital Mind]
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