As the Diesel Emits: Volkswagen's Brand Chief Says Diesels Have A Place In U.S. Lineup

You would think the last thing anyone Volkswagen wants to admit is they still believe there is a place for their diesel vehicles in the U.S. Alas, Volkswagen's brand chief thinks differently.

Herbert Diess told reporters at the Consumer Electronics Show that Diesels will still have a place in Volkswagen's U.S. lineup, despite the mess the company finds itself in.

“I wouldn’t give up diesel, even in the U.S.,” said Diess.

Diess pointed that with the latest emission technologies, diesels can be clean. He was also quick to point to the long range and high torque figures.

At the moment, Volkswagen is trying to get approval from U.S. regulators to fix the nearly 600,000 vehicles fitted with the illegal software that was designed to cheat emission tests. Since Volkswagen sent their plan to fix the illegal vehicles in November, they have been in talks with the EPA and CARB. It appears the talks are at a stalemate.

“So far, recall discussions with the company have not produced an acceptable way forward. These discussions will continue in parallel with the federal court action,” said Cynthia Giles, assistant administrator for the EPA’s Office of Enforcement in a statement announcing the lawsuit against Volkswagen early this week.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)