Some major automobile manufacturers are facing allegations of prioritizing sales over environmental concerns in the ongoing “dieselgate” scandal. The High Court heard accusations that these companies installed devices in vehicles to manipulate emissions during tests to comply with regulations, but emitted higher levels of pollutants during regular use.
The trial, anticipated to span three months, is the largest legal action of its kind in English history, with a verdict not expected until the following summer. Lawyers estimate the claims to be valued at around £6 billion. Representing 1.6 million claimants, the legal team accuses the manufacturers of deceiving diesel emissions tests, a decade after the initial accusations against Volkswagen.
Owners of diesel vehicles from Mercedes-Benz, Ford, Nissan, Renault, and Stellantis-owned brands Peugeot and Citroen allege the use of illegal “defeat devices.” The manufacturers deny the allegations, emphasizing the uniqueness of their situation compared to the 2015 scandal. The trial will focus on a selection of diesel vehicles from the five companies, with the court’s decision impacting numerous similar claims against other manufacturers.
A mother whose daughter succumbed to an asthma attack linked to pollution expressed hope for justice. Rosamund Adoo-Kissi-Debrah, a campaigner, highlighted the impact of diesel emissions on children’s health, particularly in London. The trial also saw Adam Kamenetzky, a Mercedes SUV owner, questioning the environmental claims of his vehicle.
The trial commenced with allegations that industry players knowingly chose to prioritize customer convenience over pollution control, leading to cheating on emissions regulations. The case revolves around harmful nitrogen oxides emissions and their impact on public health. The trial, presided over by Lady Justice Cockerill, is expected to conclude in December, with legal arguments scheduled for March 2026.
Lawyers representing the claimants emphasized that if proven, the allegations would expose a severe breach of corporate trust. Notably, the High Court previously ruled against Volkswagen in 2020 regarding defeat devices, with VW settling the claims without admitting liability in 2022.