Mubasher: The German automaker Volkswagen AG on Thursday stated that it will launch a programme in 14 cities to exchange old diesel vehicles with newer models.

The owners of cars with engines that cope with Euro-4 or Euro-5 standards who will approve to exchange with newer models will receive a premium.

The project is set to be implemented in various regions including Cologne, Munich, and Stuttgart, according to an official statement.

This investment came after approving a government-backed initiative to reduce diesel cars and it is also considered part of Germany’s efforts to improve its air quality across cities.

“Motorists whose vehicles run engines that conform to the older Euro-1 to Euro-4 standards will receive a payment for scrapping their vehicle, with the value of the payment varying depending on the model,” the statement said.

The firm’s head of sales Christian Dahlheim said that this programme is made to support the federal government's endeavours to avoid potential driving bans.

“The group's Audi, Seat, Skoda, Volkswagen and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brands will be announcing details of their brand-specific programs,” Volkswagen added.