Former Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn is testifying before a German parliamentary inquiry in his first public appearance since he resigned in the wake of the company’s diesel emissions scandal.
Winterkorn, flanked by two lawyers, told the panel Thursday « it is not the case » he knew earlier than previously thought of the scandal. He said he’s still seeking « satisfactory answers » as to what happened.
The 69-year-old quit in September 2015, several days after news of Volkswagen’s use of software to cheat on emissions emerged in the U. S. He told the panel « as CEO I took political responsibility » — echoing previous statements.
He added: « Believe me, this step was the most difficult of my life. »
Winterkorn said he wouldn’t comment on details that are a matter for a criminal investigation in Germany.
