U.S. Dept of Justice Sues Volkswagen over Clean Air Act Violations

Yesterday, the United States Department of Justice filed a complaint on behalf of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), claiming that Volkswagen violated the Clean Air Act. Last year, it was found that the automaker had installed illegal defeat devices that were designed to evade emissions testing in over 600,000 “clean diesel” vehicles sold in the United States.

The so-called “clean diesel” vehicles passed emissions test, yet were producing pollution forty times over the limit of the EPA compliance level.

The cited violations are serious ones. The deception “breach[es] the public trust, endanger[s] public health and [creates a] disadvantage [for] competitors,” said Assistant Attorney General John C. Cruden for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division.

Affected 2.0 liter diesel models and model years include:

• Jetta (2009-2015)
• Jetta Sportwagen (2009-2014)
• Beetle (2013-2015)
• Beetle Convertible (2013-2015)
• Audi A3 (2010-2015)
• Golf (2010-2015)
• Golf Sportwagen (2015)
• Passat (2012-2015)

Affected 3.0 liter diesel models and model years include:

• Volkswagen Touareg (2009-2016)
• Porsche Cayenne (2013-2016)
• Audi A6 Quattro (2014-2016)
• Audi A7 Quattro (2014-2016)
• Audi A8 (2014 – 2016)
• Audi A8L (2014-2016)
• Audi Q5 (2014-2016)
• Audi Q7 (2009-2015)

Did you purchase a Volkswagen or Audi vehicle under the assumption that it was “clean diesel?” You are not alone if you feel deceived. Brayton Purcell LLP attorneys are currently reviewing the cases of auto owners to determine if they are eligible for compensation for lost value and more. Contact our offices today if you are interested in finding out more.

Sources: justice.gov | Law360