US Government files a complaint against Volkswagen over emissions cheat

Washington (Jan. 06, 2016) – The United states of America, Justice Department has filed a complaint against Volkswagen Group for installing emissions-cheating software devices in around 600,000 diesel vehicles which were sold in the United States.

The complaint against the German automaker was filed on behalf of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA’s) standards in United States District Court in Detroit, Michigan.  EPA Claims the Volkswagen illegally installed emissions-cheating software in their vehicles, as a result of which Volkswagen vehicle generates harmful air pollutants. The complaint further claims that Volkswagen violates the Clean Air Act by sale or import differently designed vehicles in the United States.

The claims against Volkswagen group, along with its Audi and Porsche units, bring penalties that could cost the automaker billions of dollars. A total penalty amount was not specified, but according to sources Volkswagen could pay fine of around USD20 billion or around USD35,000 per vehicle depending on the time of the violation.

According to the “Environmental Protection Agency” (EPA’s), currently complaint is in the first stage and they have already filed a charge against Volkswagen for failing to disclose the default device while seeking certification for its diesel vehicles.

"Car manufacturers Volkswagen that fails to properly certify their cars and defeat emission control systems break the people trust and increase risk for people’s health," said the assistant attorney general for the Justice Department's Environment and Natural Resources Division”.

TechSci Research believes that due to this recent complaint against Volkswagen Group, the company faces a tough competition in USA. The recent report published by TechSci Research, “United States Automotive Seals and Gaskets Market Forecast and Opportunities, 2020” Volkswagen Group goodwill has significantly declined in the USA. Furthermore, the incident would increase penetration of other passenger car manufacture companies in the country by introducing new emission certified passenger cars.