Green Car Journal Strips Volkswagen, Audi of Awards
Green Car Journal announced Wednesday that they would take back two awards given to vehicles that are now part of Volkswagen’s diesel emissions debacle. The 2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI and 2010 Audi A3 TDI were bestowed Green Car of the Year awards by the publication.
“Rescinding the Green Car of the Year awards for the VW Jetta TDI and Audi A3 TDI is unfortunate but appropriate,” said Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of the Green Car Journal.
Green Car Journal is taking back the awards based on the vehicles’ ineligibility to be considered.
Representatives from Volkswagen and Audi have agreed to return the awards. No details were given about whether the honors would be re-awarded to other vehicles from competing companies.
Audi of America President Scott Keogh said in a statement that “Audi has won hundreds of races and thousands of awards throughout its history. But we only want to win fair and square. Therefore, in light of recent developments, we believe the only right thing to do is to return this important recognition of environmental stewardship. We are determined to compete — and hopefully win — Green Car of the Year awards the proper way in future years.”
No statement was provided by Volkswagen of America.
The backtrack is likely the first of many we will see from publications looking to distance themselves from the diesel emissions controversy.
More by Mark Stevenson
Comments
Join the conversation
I'm still mad that they followed up the classic design of the 4th generation Jetta with the chromed Corolla 5th generation.
Green is the new word for sucker.
Such a well-known and renowned publication, surely. I've never heard of it. They need to update their website as well, as their "Green Events" page still features 100% Audi. http://greencarjournal.com/green-car-events/
I think Green Car Journal is more recognized for taking away those awards then actually giving them out. Don't think a lot of people have heard of Green car journal.