The European Court of Justice has found German carmaker Volkswagen liable for using special devices to conceal exhaust emissions.
These so-called "defeat devices" are special software and hardware tools that artificially reduce harmful emissions during vehicle testing. The court stated that such devices are illegal even if the vehicle meets technical standards.
The ruling stems from two lawsuits filed in Germany against Volkswagen. It was found that these devices were installed either during production or through later software updates.
The court said that buyers must be compensated for the damage caused. The compensation may be reduced depending on vehicle use, but it should not be less than 15% of the purchase price.
Volkswagen officials responded by saying the decision will not significantly impact the company, as most lawsuits in Germany have already been resolved.
A reminder: a "defeat device" is a tool or program that manipulates a car’s emissions control system to cheat environmental regulations.
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