The Volkswagen Group is set to face a new criminal trial in France, marking the latest chapter in its ongoing struggles with the Dieselgate scandal. The case, which began in 2015, has seen the German automaker accused of using defeat devices in its diesel engines to cheat on emissions tests. This deception has resulted in significant pollution under typical driving circumstances, posing a danger to human and animal health.
The trial is expected to take place in 2027, with an initial hearing scheduled for December 18, 2026. French prosecutors have referred Volkswagen to the criminal court, citing 'deception by a legal entity regarding a product causing a danger to human and animal health.' This move marks another significant development in the ongoing Dieselgate saga.
Volkswagen has been at the center of global litigation related to its diesel emissions defeat devices since 2015. The company's TDI brand was found to have been programmed to cheat on emissions tests, resulting in significantly higher levels of pollution under typical driving circumstances. This has led to civil and criminal suits across Europe and the US.
The new case against Volkswagen is centered around allegations that the company marketed its TDI models as more efficient and environmentally friendly than they actually were. French prosecutors are seeking a fine ranging from €750,000 up to 10% of Volkswagen's annual gross revenue, as well as potential bans on certain commercial marketing activities.
Lawyers representing the victims of Dieselgate have stated that the legal proceedings serve the objective of preserving their rights and compensating them for material and moral damages suffered. However, Volkswagen has thus far remained silent on this issue, despite previous claims that French consumers had not suffered any compensable harm from purchasing its vehicles.
The company's lawyers have previously contested the validity of aggravated deception during Dieselgate proceedings in France, arguing that French consumers did not suffer any compensable harm from purchasing a VW vehicle. However, Volkswagen has paid significant fines and damages in other lawsuits, including over $32 billion in total and $9.8 billion in damages to US consumers.
The Dieselgate scandal has had far-reaching consequences for the automotive industry as a whole. The widespread use of defeat devices by multiple manufacturers has led to increased scrutiny of emissions testing and marketing practices. As a result, automakers are now subject to stricter regulations and more stringent testing protocols.
Volkswagen's ongoing struggles with Dieselgate have also highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability in the automotive industry. The company's failure to disclose its use of defeat devices has led to significant financial penalties and damage to its reputation.
The trial is likely to provide further insight into the Dieselgate scandal and its impact on consumers and the environment. As the case unfolds, it will be interesting to see how Volkswagen and other manufacturers respond to these allegations and work towards a more sustainable future.
