Volvo to pay $197 million after hidden pollution device found in California truck engines
Volvo Group North America has agreed to pay nearly $197 million to resolve claims by California regulators that the company’s heavy-duty truck engines violated California emissions standards and certification requirements.
Nearly 10,000 diesel truck engines manufactured by Volvo were equipped with an undisclosed device that caused them to emit excessive levels of smog-forming pollution across California, according to the California Air Resources Board, the state agency that regulates air pollution and greenhouse gases.
volvo developing a software fix repairing many of these vehicles and extending their warranties at no cost to their owners. Eligible truck owners are expected to be notified of the non-mandatory recall on these trucks next year.
CARB found inconsistencies in the Swedish automaker’s data while testing Volvo-powered trucks from 2010 to 2016, resulting in the investigation and subsequent settlement.
“This case underscores why CARB’s compliance testing and strong enforcement are essential to protecting the state’s air quality and public health,” said Lauren Sanchez, chair of the state Air Resources Board. “Our responsibility goes beyond accepting regulations; we are committed to complying with them by detecting violations and holding companies accountable for meeting emissions standards.”
Under the agreement, Volvo will pay a $17.5 million fine to repay the government for investigation costs and support vehicle testing operations. Another $179 million will be used to invest in clean air initiatives, such as electric vehicle incentive programs, to offset air pollution from the alleged violations.
