Ford Says Feds Have Opened Criminal Probe Into Its Emissions Certifications
CNBC is reporting that the Justice Department has launched a criminal investigation in a matter relating to Ford Motor’s emissions certification process.
“The matter stems from issues related to road load estimations, including analytical modeling and physical track testing,” writes CNBC’s Amelia Lucas. “Road load is a vehicle-specific resistance level that helps determine fuel economy ratings and emissions certifications. It does not involve the use of defeat devices to cheat on emissions tests.”
The company said it voluntarily disclosed disclosed the issue to the Environmental Protection Agency on Feb. 18 and has hired outside experts to investigate its vehicle fuel economy and testing procedures after employees raised concerns.