Diesel engines are carcinogenic, according to the WHO

Back in 1988, diesel was classified as a potential carcinogen in 1988. But lately the International Agency for Resarch on Cancer (IARC) has claimed to have proofs exposure to particles contained in exhaust fumes of diesel engines significantly increases risks of lung cancer. The classification was therefore reviewed and went to "certain".

Director of powertrain and chassis engineering, Christian Chapelle immediately voiced his answer to the report: "Conclusions made by the WHO are based on old data, fingers cannot be pointed at new diesel engines, including my group's."

In Eastern Europe, diesel vehicles accounted for 55.7% of new car sales in 2011; in France, the numbers ramp up to 72.4%. Luxembourg, Norway and Belgium follow closely behind in the statistics. In Canada, according to 2009 data, diesels only powered 3% of all vehicles (heavy equipment excluded).

Source: cnetfrance.fr