Volkswagen chief executive officer Martin Winterkorn has resigned following accusations that the firm manipulated US diesel car emissions tests.

Winterkorn had been at the helm of Volkswagen since the beginning of 2007. He previously held various roles at Volkswagen and Audi since 1981.

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In a statement, the manufacturer’s executive committee highlighted that Winterkorn had “no knowledge of the manipulation of emissions data.”

Winterkorn said: “I am shocked by the events of the past few days. Above all, I am stunned that misconduct on such a scale was possible in the Volkswagen Group. As CEO I accept responsibility for the irregularities that have been found in diesel engines and have therefore requested the Supervisory Board to agree on terminating my function as CEO of the Volkswagen Group. I am doing this in the interests of the company even though I am not aware of any wrong doing on my part.

“Volkswagen needs a fresh start – also in terms of personnel. I am clearing the way for this fresh start with my resignation. I have always been driven by my desire to serve this company, especially our customers and employees. Volkswagen has been, is and will always be my life. The process of clarification and transparency must continue. This is the only way to win back trust. I am convinced that the Volkswagen Group and its team will overcome this grave crisis.”

Reuters reported that Porsche chief Matthias Mueller, Audi chief Rupert Stadler and the head of the VW brand, Herbert Diess, are seen as the front-runners to replace Winterkorn.

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Up to 11 million cars could be affected by the emissions scandal and the German Automaker could face penalties of up to $18bn (£11.8bn) by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

“The Executive Committee recognizes not only the economic damage caused, but also the loss of trust among many customers worldwide,” the executive committee wrote.