Under pressure Volkswagen Group CEO Martin Winterkorn has today announced his resignation. His resignation follows a turbulent few days for Volkswagen which has been rocked by revelations that it rigged diesel emission tests in the US. 

In a statement, Winterkorn said he was stunned by the scale of misconduct that occured and the the company needs a fresh start. Earlier today he met board members to discuss the crisis.

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His full statement reads:

“I am shocked by the events of the past few days. Above all, I am stunned that misconduct on such a scale was possible in the Volkswagen Group.

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. I am doing this in the interests of the company even though I am not aware of any wrong doing on my part.

Volkswagen needs a fresh start – also in terms of personnel. I am clearing the way for this fresh start with my resignation.

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I have always been driven by my desire to serve this company, especially our customers and employees. Volkswagen has been, is and will always be my life.

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.”

See also: GERMANY: VW CEO under pressure as board convenes for special session

COMMENT: Will VW CEO Winterkorn survive this crisis?

HOT TOPIC: Volkswagen’s emissions crisis