Volkswagen starts installing “defeat devices” The devices bypass tougher anti-pollution standards introduced in 2008. The tougher rules cap legal nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions.

Abnormalities found in tests Researchers from the Internationa Council on Clean Transportation and West Virginia University find abnormalities between the NOx emitted by VW vehicles in lab tests and on the road.

EPA investigation begins The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) begins an investigation into VW. The back and forth between the two lasts more than a year, as VW argues that third-party tests of its cars were flawed.

VW admits tricks VW admits that it has used sophisticated software to trick regulators. Its software monitors steering, engine use and barometric pressure to determine whether the car is being tested for emissions.

VW's deception goes public The EPA makes VW’s deception public, leaving the Germany company facing up to $18bn (£12bn) in fines, as well as potential cases from the Department of Justice, FBI and the European Union.

VW CEO resigns In the wake of the scandal, CEO Martin Winterkorn resigns. Since the EPA came out on the previous Friday, VW shares have lost a third of their value, and the comany’s reputation has been tarnished.