Even though it's been more than a decade since the infamous "Dieselgate" scandal, the German automotive giant will have to dig deep into its pockets (again) due to the irregularities discovered.
Mercedes-Benz will have to pay nearly 127 million euros for allegedly using so-called “defeat devices” – hidden software measures that helped vehicles cheat on emissions tests. According to the New York attorney general, more than 211.000 diesel vehicles manufactured between 2008 and 2017 were equipped with them, which emitted up to 40 times more nitrogen oxides than allowed in real-world traffic.
Of the total amount, €102 million will be allocated to member states for air pollution prevention measures. The remaining €25 million will be temporarily withheld – Mercedes will be able to claim it in the form of credits of €750 for each vehicle repaired, bought back or withdrawn. In addition, owners who opt for an approved emissions upgrade should receive a payment of €2.000. Claims must be submitted by September 30, 2026.
In addition to the financial settlement, Mercedes must stop selling all diesel vehicles with the software in question and is prohibited from using misleading terms such as “clean” or “low-emission” unless they are proven accurate. The company must also regularly report on the progress of the repairs and keep owners informed. The vehicles were fitted with devices that detected test conditions and temporarily reduced emissions, but emissions rose again during normal driving.
The list of affected models includes several generations of E-, S-, GL-, GLE-, GLK-, ML-, R-class vehicles and Sprinter vans. This is a continuation of more extensive proceedings - in 2020, Mercedes already reached a settlement with the US government worth approximately $2,2 billion.
