Computer Science Homework Help

Case Study 4.3—Volkswagen and Its Project to Cheat Emissions Tests

This case is based on a current and very timely series of events, relating to the decision by Volkswagen and other car manufacturers to willingly cheat diesel emissions tests by installing a software device that detects the difference between shop testing and actual driving on the roads. Volkswagen actually created a project team of engineers to design this cheat device, in spite of the second-thoughts and objections of several engineers who worked on the software device. Once the evidence for this deception began to be made public, Volkswagen executives engaged in systematic efforts to silence their own engineers, destroy documents, and cover up the fact that they had sanctioned this project in the first place. Since Volkswagen was charged with this deception, other automakers have also been accused and admitted to similar behaviors.

Requirements:

• Restate each question followed by its corresponding answer (answers to questions should be a minimum of 500 words or ½ page.)
• Submitted through SafeAssign for originality, scores must be below 40%.
• Follow APA formatting guidelines (i.e. include a reference page)
• Each team member is required to submit a copy of the team’s paper, in order to receive credit.
• Develop a PowerPoint presentation to present. The presentations should be 15 minutes long. The PPT is not submitted to the drop-box.

Questions

1. How do you think Volkswagen executives could justify this behavior? How do you think the actions of the Japanese automakers influenced VW’s decision-making?

2. How would you personally respond if you were a member of a project team developing a device that was designed to cheat environmental testing? What if you were the sole support for a large family with three children in college?

3. Is there a “moral” to this story for you? What would that moral be?