A while back I reported on inaccurate fuel claims made by Hyundai and Kia in the US, and widespread disparity in Europe on fuel use claims which can be seen by clicking here. GM USA has just admitted that a flawed ignition switch was not reported or acted upon for years, resulting in deaths!
Now VW has been accused of deliberately evading federal emissions requirements in nearly a half-million diesel cars in the U.S. since 2009 by writing vehicle software to only activate anti-pollution controls during testing. It's hard to see that being accidental. If proven, it is obviously an illegal tactic and a public health threat. People die from pollutants, so it is a serious issue.
It seems that while we laud capitalism for the standard of living it gives everyday people, it is nevertheless a greed driven system based around money and profit. The industry is facing many regulatory hurdles on top of the general cost of car manufacturing. Some seem to be using dishonest means to gain an advantage. If one does wrong and gets away with it, others follow so as not to be disadvantaged and it becoming a vicious circle.
If there is little disincentive to be open and honest, then they will continue as they are doing. Hit them hard financially and car makers will soon learn it isn't worth it. The car industry wants creditability and trust, but this is not the way to get it.
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