FCA CEO Calls Diesel Cheat Allegations 'Unadulterated Hogwash'
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) has released a statement and its CEO has spoken after being accused by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for using emissions cheating software.
Earlier today, it was announced that the EPA has sent a notice of violation to FCA advising the company that its 3.0-liter diesel vehicles are using illegal software intended to fool emissions tests. The automaker has since responded to the accusations, releasing an official statement saying that it is “disappointed that the EPA has chosen to issue a notice of violation with respect to the emissions control technology employed in the company’s 2014-16 model year light duty 3.0-liter diesel engines.”
The company clarifies that its diesel engines are equipped with state-of-the-art emissions control systems hardware, including selective catalytic reduction (SCR). It is adamant that its emission control systems meet the applicable requirements and added that it has spent months providing information in response to requests from EPA and other governmental authorities, seeking to explain its emissions control technology. FCA also says it has proposed to develop extensive software changes to its emissions control strategies that could be implemented in the diesel vehicles immediately to further improve emissions performance.
SEE ALSO: Ram, Jeep 3.0L EcoDiesels Accused of Using Emissions Cheating Software
Speaking to reporters shortly after the allegation was released, FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne said it was “unadulterated hogwash” in regards to his company’s intention to cheat. He added that there’s “nothing in common between the VW reality and what we are describing here.” Marchionne claims that the dispute is over “whether the calibration that was filed…met all regulations.”
The company looks forward to meeting with the EPA’s enforcement division and representatives of the new administration to prove its emissions control strategies are properly justified and are not defeat devices, like what Volkswagen used to cheat diesel emissions tests.
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“Its unadulterated hogwash.” @FiatChrysler_NA CEO Sergio Marchionne says of implication that there was intent to cheat. @EPA
— Brent Snavely (@BrentSnavely) January 12, 2017
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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The EPA seems genuinely unhappy unless it is persecuting businesses, giving consumers fewer (and costlier) choices, and generally making fools of themselves. No wonder the turn-over rate at this agency is so high.
All diesel equipped machines; boats, trucks, trains, etc. must meet very stringent emission regulations. Many locomotives are being repowered with modern, emission complient Diesel engines and at big $$ each. Diesel engine manufacturers spend $M each year to meet EPA and other location specific regulations. It's a very big and expensive issue.