Daimler said it is cooperating fully with the authorities. Daimler will consequently investigate possible indications of irregularities and “take all necessary actions.”

In a brief statement, the company noted that its experience with the US authorities “has clearly shown that a conservative communication supports the constructive dialogue with the authorities.”

Some owners of Mercedes diesel cars have filed class-action lawsuits in the US charging that Daimler used a defeat device to cheat emissions testing. Daimler said it considers the class actions filed against it “to be without merit” and said it will defend itself against them “with all available legal means”.