Ayhan Şimşek
September 23, 2015•Update: September 24, 2015
BERLIN
Volkswagen’s CEO Martin Winterkorn announced his resignation on Wednesday amid a widening scandal over the manipulation of emissions tests by the German automaker.
Volkswagen admitted Tuesday that the manipulation of emissions tests by a company software concerned some 11 million vehicles sold worldwide.
“Volkswagen needs a fresh start -- also in terms of personnel. I am clearing the way for this fresh start with my resignation,” Winterkorn said in a written statement.
He acknowledged his responsibility but dismissed any wrongdoing.
“As CEO I accept responsibility for the irregularities that have been found in diesel engines and have therefore requested the Supervisory Board to agree on terminating my function as CEO of the Volkswagen Group,” he said.
“I am doing this in the interests of the company even though I am not aware of any wrongdoing on my part.”
Reports over the weekend claimed that the U.S. environmental authorities had found software in 482,000 cars that detects when a vehicle is undergoing an emissions test and thus activates emissions controls. The controls are switched off when driving normally, consequently releasing pollutants.
Winterkorn expressed hope on Wednesday that his resignation will help the company restore trust.
“The process of clarification and transparency must continue. This is the only way to win back trust. I am convinced that the Volkswagen Group and its team will overcome this grave crisis,” he said.
The German automaker did not immediately name a successor following Winterkorn’s resignation.
Acting Chairman of Volkswagen’s supervisory board, Berthold Huber, said on Wednesday that the board will not decide on a new CEO of the group before Friday.
