Approximately 200,000 late-model TDI-badged Volkswagen four-cylinder diesel vehicles, many of which were until recently used as daily drivers, now sit unused in massive holding lots. Some of those lots stand as awkward public reminders of just how much work Volkswagen has ahead of it to remedy owners, fix vehicles, and mend its reputation. And you know the parking?s not free.
The vehicles have been bought back with generous cash payments?an average of about $21,600 and up to a maximum of more than $45,000. And now, because of slow progress regarding potential fixes that would bring vehicles back into emissions compliance?or close enough to it to satisfy regulators?it?s looking as if VW might just keep these cars parked right where they are for another year or more. ?These vehicles are being stored on an interim basis and routinely maintained in a manner to ensure their long-term operability and quality,? spokesperson Jeannine Ginivan told C/D.
Under the elaborate consent decree that governs the terms of its diesel emissions settlement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the California Air Resources Board (CARB), Volkswagen has to pull the engine-control unit (ECU) from vehicles that it buys back. After that, it has a choice: It can salvage the vehicles for parts and sell those in the U.S. or abroad (except for the ECU, oxidation catalyst, or particulate filter), or it can opt to fix the vehicles.
To appease regulators, VW has to perform an ?approved emissi...