Stellantis FCA US to pay $4.2 million for California excess emissions probe
Stellantis FCA US has agreed to pay $4.2 million to settle a California investigation into excess emissions, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) announced on Monday. This settlement pertains to violations of air quality regulations involving 2014-2016 Ram ProMaster 1500, 2500, and 3500 vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines. The vehicles were found to have an unauthorized device that bypassed emissions controls, leading to the release of nearly 55 tons of excess oxides of nitrogen into the atmosphere.
Key points from the settlement include:
– Stellantis previously paid $5.6 million to California in 2022 for similar violations related to gas-powered vehicles.
– The company has committed to recalling the affected vehicles to bring them into compliance with state regulations by modifying their emission control systems.
– As part of the settlement, Stellantis will pay over $2 million as a civil penalty to the state’s Air Pollution Control Fund and $2.1 million towards a project incentivizing ocean-going cargo vessels to reduce speed during peak whale and ozone seasons for improved wildlife and air quality.
In a separate federal investigation, FCA US pleaded guilty in June 2022 to criminal conspiracy and agreed to a $300 million settlement to resolve a U.S. Justice Department diesel emissions fraud probe. This isn’t the first time California has dealt with FCA over emissions issues, as back in 2019, the state settled with the automaker for using defeat device software on over 100,000 diesel vehicles nationwide, receiving a portion of a $500 million settlement.
This recent settlement underscores the importance of holding automakers accountable for their environmental impact and ensuring compliance with emissions regulations. By imposing penalties and corrective actions, authorities are sending a strong message that environmental protection is non-negotiable in the pursuit of cleaner air and a healthier ecosystem. Let this serve as a reminder to all companies to prioritize sustainability and responsibility in their operations for the greater good of our planet.
