Without formal procedure launched, the European Commission has been scrutinizing Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW AG) in the wake of cartel allegations against the German automotive industry. The company confirmed on Friday that investigators were at its Munich headquarters this week, and denied the process has anything to do with the emissions-tampering scandal.

The preliminary probe includes Volkswagen AG and Daimler AG. Bodo Uebber, the latter's finance chief, revealed today that the carmaker applied with the European Union authorities for the status of a witness. VW's Porsche Automobil Holding SE and Audi AG are also being investigated, according to reports in the domestic media.

The giant manufacturers appear to be targeted for price fixing and schemes in supply. Speculation indicates the case may concern actions since late into the previous century, and that the probe is also related to coordination of technology and strategy.