Undercover investigation reveals Europe-wide motorcycle emissions ‘scam’

illuminem summarises for you the essential news of the day, reviewed by our editorial team. Read the full piece on DeSmog or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: A year-long undercover investigation across seven European countries has exposed KTM dealerships systematically derestricting off-road motorcycles after type approval
• Bikes originally fitted with pollution- and noise-limiting features are being modified to increase power and emissions, often exceeding EU and UK legal limits
• The practice affects at least 16 KTM Enduro models, including GASGAS and Husqvarna sub-brands, with an estimated 10,000 derestricted units sold annually

🔭 The context: KTM allegedly supplies parts and training to dealerships to remove emission control devices such as lambda sensors, catalytic converters, and engine restrictors, while still issuing Certificates of Conformity and road registration
• This practice resembles post-sale manipulation rather than Volkswagen-style “defeat devices” and raises questions about the effectiveness of type approval enforcement
• Competitors and regulators are monitoring, but no manufacturer aside from KTM has confirmed involvement

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Derestricted motorcycles emit pollution at levels that can exceed those of small diesel locomotives and create significantly more noise than legal limits, directly harming air quality, contributing to climate change, and increasing noise pollution
• The scheme undermines EU and UK emissions standards designed to protect human health, ecosystems, and climate resilience

⏭️ What’s next: European authorities, including the EU Commission and national transport agencies in France, Germany, and the UK, are reviewing the findings
• Potential consequences include fines of up to €5 million per manufacturer, legal proceedings, and tighter surveillance of post-approval modifications
• Environmental groups and MEPs are calling for stronger oversight of manufacturer compliance

💬 One quote: “This is not a small loophole, but a business model built on deception… The European Commission must investigate these allegations rigorously.” — German Greens MEP Michael Bloss

📈 One stat: The KTM EXC 300 Enduro, tested in derestricted form, was found to be over 10 times more polluting and twice as loud as EU 2013 emissions and noise limits

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