Mitsubishi embroiled in scandal involving rigged emission levels
Shares in Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) fell 15% this week after the automaker admitted to falsifying fuel economy tests affecting about 625,000 mini-cars it built for its own brand and for Nissan Motor (NM).
None of the applicable cars are sold in Europe, but to the end of March 2016, MMC had sold 157,000 units under its own brand and supplied 468,000 to Nissan. MMC said it developed the cars and was responsible for obtaining the relevant certifications, so conducted fuel consumption testing. During development of the next generation of mini-car models, Nissan examined the fuel consumption rates “and found deviations in the figures”.
It requested MMC to review the running resistance value set by MMC during tests by MMC.
“In the course of our internal investigation upon this request, MMC learned of the improper conduct that MMC used the running resistance value (tyre rolling resistance and air resistance) for testing which provided more advantageous fuel consumption rates than the actual rates,” the automaker said.
MMC added: “We have decided to stop production and sales of the applicable cars. NM also has stopped sales of the applicable cars, and MMC and NM will discuss compensation regarding this issue.
“During our internal investigation, we have found that the testing method which was different from the one required by Japanese law has been applied to other models manufactured by MMC for the Japanese domestic market.
“Taking into account the seriousness of these issues, we will also conduct an investigation into products manufactured for overseas markets. In order to conduct an investigation into these issues objectively and thoroughly, we plan to set up a committee consisting of only external experts. We will publish the results of our investigation as soon as it is complete.”
News that will possibly appeal to motorists is the announcement of a ‘Win Your Fill of Fuel Around Ireland’ promotion by Valero, who market fuel in Ireland under the Texaco brand.
Continuing until May 6, motorists who spend €30 or more on fuel at any participating station can enter a draw to win a free €500 Texaco fuel voucher. Applicable in the Republic of Ireland only, entries — which include a simple test of skill are subject to terms and conditions printed on the entry form — can be deposited in a dedicated entry box at the station where the purchase is made. One winner will be chosen from each participating station.
