What exactly is in that Fahrvergnugen, VW?

Surprised there's no thread yet (unless I missed it) about Volkswagen admitting it installed a device in diesel cars that could detect when it was being tested for emissions and thus run clean as advertised during those times, but run far dirtier other times. Looks like not only is VW in big trouble, but the diesel car market in the U.S., already a bit of a niche market thanks in no small part to past mistakes by GM (among others), could take a big hit.
Volkswagen Allegedly Openly Violated EPA Diesel Laws, Could Face Billions in Fines
VW Issues Stop-Sale Order for All 2.0-liter TDI Diesel Models
VW CEO Issues Statement on EPA Emissions Violations, Apologizes for Wrongdoing

 

Yes, this is a big deal. VW has been pushing "clean diesel" hard for quite some time as a more environmentally friendly alternative to regular gas engines.

 

I hope VW takes a big, big hit.

 

Billions in fines?

Also, one would think developing this work-around for emissions testing would be WAY more expensive than actually, you know, making a cleaner-running engine.

 

That's the way life works. You try to cut a corner and get caught and it's way more expensive. Usually doesn't work that way with corporations, though.

 

The workaround was a few lines of code. The cleaner engine would have required the design, manufacture, and installation of a new system to capture the nitrogen oxide.

 

I read somewhere (prolly also mentioned in a link above) that they face a fine of $37,000 per vehicle sold -- more than 300,000 of them.

 

Really? No sensors, internal timing mechanisms, an separate emissions control system for testing times?

 

The poor old ladies in those clean diesel commercials will have a hard time paying the fine on their fixed income.

 

The truth was always out there.

 

"Clean diesel." Now there's an oxymoron if there ever was one -- and almost as bad as that "clean coal" bullshit.

 

"Fuck you!"