German Tests Flag Fiat Diesel Model for Emissions Irregularity
German regulators have found that a Fiat diesel model cuts its emissions controls after 22 minutes, raising questions about the use of defeat devices.
German authorities have identified a Fiat diesel model with emissions controls that deactivate after 22 minutes of operation, according to a report by Bild am Sonntag. The timing closely matches the typical duration of official regulatory tests, raising concerns about the use of software or hardware to manipulate emissions results.
The German Federal Motor Transport Authority has been investigating emissions across all major manufacturers since the Volkswagen scandal broke in 2015. This latest finding adds Fiat to a list of carmakers under scrutiny for irregularities in their diesel emissions management. Earlier in 2016, German regulators ordered a voluntary recall of 630,000 vehicles from Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz and Opel to address similar issues with emissions software.
Bild am Sonntag reported that the emissions management system on the unnamed Fiat model switched off after 22 minutes, just beyond the standard test window. This behaviour suggests the presence of a defeat device, which is prohibited under EU law. The newspaper also noted that Bosch, a major automotive supplier, had informed investigators of a mechanism in Fiat vehicles that disables exhaust aftertreatment systems beyond certain operating conditions.
Regulatory pressure on diesel emissions
The discovery follows a wave of investigations into diesel emissions across Europe. Regulators have focused on whether carmakers are using software or technical strategies to ensure emissions systems operate only during laboratory testing. While the report did not specify which Fiat model was tested, the findings have prompted further scrutiny of the company’s diesel range.
The German authorities’ approach has included both laboratory and real-world testing to uncover discrepancies. The issue of emissions management software is not unique to Fiat, with several other manufacturers already recalled or investigated for similar practices. For context on the wider regulatory action, seeGerman Carmakers to Recall 630,000 Diesels Over Emissions Software.
Implications for Fiat and the diesel sector
Fiat has not commented publicly on the specific findings or detailed which models could be affected. The use of defeat devices can lead to regulatory penalties, recalls and reputational damage. The report also highlights the role of suppliers such as Bosch, which has previously supplied components used in emissions systems across the industry. For comparison, Opel has faced lighter scrutiny than Fiat Chrysler over similar allegations, as reported inOpel Faces Lighter Scrutiny Than Fiat Chrysler Over Diesel Emissions.
