Emissions Settlement Reached: Stellantis Unit to Pay $4.2 Million
California’s ongoing efforts to curb air pollution have led to a significant settlement with Stellantis unit FCA US. The company has agreed to pay $4.2 million to resolve an investigation into excess emissions from certain diesel-powered vehicles.
The Affected Vehicles
The settlement covers 2014-2016 Ram ProMaster 1500, 2500, and 3500 vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines. These vehicles were found to have an unapproved device that circumvented emissions control, resulting in nearly 55 tons of excess oxides of nitrogen being released into the air.
A Pattern of Non-Compliance
This is not the first time Stellantis has faced allegations of emissions violations. In 2022, the company paid a $5.6 million settlement to California for similar allegations involving gas-powered vehicles. Furthermore, in 2019, California settled with FCA over allegations of using “defeat device software” to circumvent emissions testing on more than 100,000 diesel vehicles nationwide.
Terms of the Settlement
As part of the settlement, Stellantis has agreed to recall the affected vehicles to modify the emission control system to comply with state regulations. The company will also pay a civil penalty of over $2 million, which will go towards the state’s Air Pollution Control Fund. Additionally, $2.1 million will be allocated to fund a project that provides incentives for ocean-going cargo vessels to slow down in certain areas during peak whale and ozone seasons, promoting wildlife and air quality benefits.
Federal Emissions Probe
In a separate federal emissions probe, FCA US pleaded guilty to criminal conspiracy in June 2022 and agreed to pay approximately $300 million as part of a plea agreement to resolve a U.S. Justice Department diesel emissions fraud investigation.
A Commitment to Environmental Responsibility
The settlement serves as a reminder of the importance of environmental responsibility and compliance with emissions regulations. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, companies must prioritize reducing their environmental footprint to ensure a sustainable future.
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