The scandal has disrupted the auto industry worldwide and prompted speculation that automakers will shift from diesel engines to other low-emission technologies, especially electric and hybrid vehicles.
Emission-testing requirements will be toughened, driving the development and adoption of new engine technologies.
The economic feasibility of these technologies will determine the future of diesel and its alternatives.
Electric cars will benefit from negative diesel publicity, but it will take time to prove their commercial viability.
Of Asian automakers, Mazda is most exposed to the diesel market, with Nissan also potentially affected in Europe.
Other Asian manufacturers that have tended to invest in hybrid- and increasingly electric-vehicle technology are likely to see sales rise.
