British MPs will investigate whether the quality of vehicle testing in the UK to assess the road worthiness of vehicles is “fit for purpose”.
The inquiry follows the Volkswagen emissions scandal, in which some VW diesel cars were found to have “defeat devices” installed that allowed them to cheat on emissions tests.
The Transport Committee will determine whether testing measures in the UK meet EU standards. Currently the approval of UK vehicles is overseen by the Vehicle Certification Authority.
Louise Ellman, chairwoman of the Transport Committee, said: “The Volkswagen scandal has raised serious concerns about whether vehicle type approval testing is fit for purpose.
“We heard evidence in October that the gap between emissions detected in test conditions and those detected in the real world significant. The testing procedure is clearly inadequate.”
Since Volkswagen was found to have installed defeat devices in its diesel cars in the US there have been several investigations by authorities worldwide.
Ms Ellman said: “It is essential to examine these allegations and to ensure that the government and EU take action to restore public confidence.”
The scandal resulted in a 3.5% drop in sales in October for the German automaker, proving to have a very negative impact on sales.
