Renault's Diesel Engine Emissions Are "Too High" But No Defeat Devices Found

Following the news that Volkswagen had been cheating emissions tests for its diesel engines, there’s been a lot of accusatory finger wagging at a number of manufacturers, however today we have the first official news of another car maker breaking the rules.

French Environment Minister Segolene Royal has revealed that a commission she appointed to independently test both French and foreign cars found that Renault’s diesel engines emitted too much carbon dioxide and nitrogen dioxide. Interestingly, however, it was also revealed that the French manufacturer had not used a ‘defeat device’ to cheat tests.

The news agency AFP is reporting that Royal also revealed that two non-French manufacturers were found to be above regulatory limits, however it is not currently clear who the other two guilty parties are.

The news comes shortly after it was revealed that authorities raided Renault factories in France last week, causing its share price to drop 20 per cent despite the company claiming nothing illegal was found. With government bodies around the globe all shaping up to launch similar inquiries, this could be the start of a long and difficult time for the auto industry.