Renault Facing French Criminal Probe Over Diesel Emissions

Renault is facing a criminal probe brought forward by the French Government due to suspicions from the country’s DGCCRF consumer fraud agency that its engines do not actually conform to emissions regulation.

An inquiry into Renault’s possible emissions test manipulations were opened following Volkswagen’s diesel emissions scandal. In a statement, the government said that federal prosecutors have been sent the findings and that it is now up to local courts “to determine what further action to take over the suspected breaches”, reports Reuters.

France’s consumer fraud agency hasn’t publicized exactly how Renault may have cheated emissions testing for its diesel vehicles. However, some kind of defeat device, similar to VW’s, to conceal the true levels of nitrogen oxides emitted from its exhaust, has been used.

In a statement, Renault says that its engines fully comply with European law. Earlier in the year, the brand admitted to using defeat devices but said they were permitted under an exemption in Europe where such devices are legal if deemed necessary to protect the engine.

Renault asserts that, without modifying the engine, the turbocharger suffered from serious clogging problems. French prosecutors are expected to carry out their own preliminary inquiry to determine if a probe led by an investigating judge will be issued.