The European Commission and EU consumer protection authorities, working together in the Consumer Protection Cooperation Network, have issued a statement calling on Volkswagen to compensate all EU consumers, including those residing outside Germany, for being mislead them as to the emission standards of their vehicles. The Commission and the EU Consumer Protection Authorities consider that Volkswagen’s commercial practices violate EU consumer protection legislation regarding the placing on the market of diesel cars equipped with illegal systems. They also state that the placing on the market of such diesels cars is a clear example of a misleading practice banned in the EU.
Didier Reynders, the commissioner for justice, said: “Dieselgate exploded six years ago. So far, not all users have been compensated. There are court rulings that reveal Volkswagen’s unfair treatment of consumers, but the carmaker is reluctant to work with consumer organizations to find appropriate solutions for consumers. As I wrote to the company last year, not only consumers residing in Germany, but all consumers must be compensated. “
So far, Volkswagen has agreed to compensate only EU consumers residing in Germany at the time of purchase. The German car manufacturer informed the Commission and the authorities of its opinion that voluntary payments to European consumers residing outside Germany were not justified as the cars concerned had already been modified to comply with legal requirements. The company’s position has not changed despite recent rulings by EU courts and national courts, which is why the Commission and EU consumer protection authorities are stepping up the pressure. The letter by which Commissioner Reinders asked Volkswagen for compensation in 2020 is available here.
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