The EPA issued a notice of violation to Volkswagen for rigging computer codes in certain diesel cars’ electronic brains to outwit emissions testing. When cars were tested, they received registered low emissions during the test, but higher emissions during regular use. VW’s deception hid the fact that almost half a million diesel vehicles in the US emitted about 40 times more nitrogen oxide than testing indicated. Volkswagen has now admitted the violation and has set aside $7.3 billion as a starting point.
Affected diesel models include:
· Jetta (MY 2009 – 2015)
· Jetta Sportwagen (MY 2009-2014)
· Beetle (MY 2012 – 2015)
· Beetle Convertible (MY 2012-2015)
· Audi A3 (MY 2010 – 2015)
· Golf (MY 2010 – 2015)
· Golf Sportwagen (MY 2015)
· Passat (MY 2012-2015)
Class actions lawsuits on behalf of owners are now being considered. EPA rules state that VW could be fined up to $37,500 for each vehicle involved in the scandal which would total around $18 billion.
Every day, we represent victims of personal injury and wrongful death as they seek justice, and lawsuits we have pursued have resulted in safety changes. Unfortunately, sometimes those changes occurred after companies’ deceptions happened. We believe it is vital to try to help prevent injuries and deaths. That’s why we will continue to share information to help protect consumers from companies who intend to commit fraud and deception.
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