Volkswagen episode hasn't affected German engineering image: Mercedes

Company also defends diesel engines as they help in generating high torque and low emission of carbon dioxide

Has Volkswagen diesel emissions scandal ruined the image of German Engineering — the country’s reputation for quality, especially in manufacturing? Last week, US regulators had asked Volkswagen to recall half a million vehicles that disguised pollution, triggering concerns there would be an impact on Motherson Sumi Systems, which supplies components to several brands of the Volkswagen group. According to Brand Finance, the has dealt a hammer blow not just to Volkswagen's reputaion but potentially to the German nation brand.

However in India, luxury car makers like Mercedes Benz India are extremely tight lipped over the recent Volkswagen diesel emissions scandal.  

Refusing to comment on this issue directly, Eberhard Kern, CEO and managing director, Mercedes Benz India said, "I can not comment what happens with the other brand. It is an ethical issue."

However, he added, "German Engineering has not been affected due to Volkswagen diesel emissions scandal. The discussion is not about German engineering. There is nothing wrong about diesel engine per say. Technically speaking there is nothing wrong in the vehicle. Its more an ethical issue, so we can not comment."

Supporting diesel engine technology he added that there are many good reasons to go for diesel with high power, high torque and low emission of carbon dioxide (CO2).

"Right now its a kind of a hype. This discussion is going around cheating issue and its nothing to do with the engine itself. We already have different drive trends like the petrols, the diesels and the hybrids. At the end its customer's decision. There are many good reason why customers go for diesel. There is nothing wrong about diesel engine per say," said Kern.

The central government on Thursday said it asked Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) to inquire if Volkswagen had manipulated emission tests data in India as in the US, where it faces a massive fine of $18 billion.