Volkswagen skids as emissions scandal widens

Volkswagen shares tumbled after the beleaguered German car maker admitted that the diesel emissions scandal also included petrol engines.

The company said on Tuesday that it had understated the fuel consumption of 800,000 vehicles sold in Europe, at an additional cost of about €2bn (£1.42bn).

“The Supervisory Board is deeply concerned by the discovery of irregularities found when determining CO2 levels for the type approval of Volkswagen Group vehicles.

“These irregularities came to light during the clarification process which, as announced, is being relentlessly and comprehensively pursued.”

VW said it would immediately start a dialogue with authorities regarding the consequences of its findings and to ensure the correct C02 classification for the vehicles affected.

Still, the company insisted that the safety of the vehicles was in no way compromised.

At 0936 GMT, VW shares were down 8.1% to €102.10.