On September 3rd, Volkswagen admitted that vehicles featuring their TDI diesel technology were rigged to cheat the EPA’s emissions tests. This originally meant that 482,000 vehicles in the U.S. would need to be recalled for some sort of emissions fix, but the problem is worse than previously thought, and now it has been revealed that 11 million VW vehicles are affected worldwide.
What Is The World’s Response?
Inquiries have been started by several European countries. In Germany, the government is not only investigating VW, but they are trying to figure out a way to keep the German reputation for fine automobiles from being tainted. South Korea has also started investigations, but many experts are waiting to see China’s response to the 11 million vehicle revelation.
China is one of VW’s biggest markets, and the country has massive pollution problems. If Chinese-market cars contained the defeat device software, then repercussions could be dire. The industry is already expecting the U.S. to fine VW billions of dollars, but could the company survive if China were to fine the company as well?
In the meantime, consumers who bought these vehicles are stuck in a holding pattern and waiting for a solution from Volkswagen. The U.S. government has already asked VW to recall the vehicles, but some experts worry that owners won’t submit to the recall because the car’s issues are not life-threatening. Other experts are waiting to see if consumers will band together and bring lawsuits against the company, which could add even more financial pressure on the automaker.
The attorneys of Colson Hicks Eidson have already started evaluating cases for potential class action litigation. Our previous experience helping the victims of defective car parts can help the VW owners who have fallen victim to this fraud, so don’t hesitate to contact us to find out what we can do to help you.
Colson Hicks Eidson—Injury Attorneys