Automaker Fiat Chrysler has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to fraud in the diesel scandal and agreed to pay a $300 million fine. US Assistant Attorney General Kenneth Polite said on Friday that the automaker was “involved in a multi-year plan to mislead US regulators and customers.”
Fiat Chrysler has been accused of installing “defeat devices” in diesel cars to circumvent emissions standards. The diesel models Ram 1500 and Jeep Grand Cherokee from model years 2014 to 2016 were affected. Like Volkswagen and other car manufacturers, Fiat Chrysler used software that recognized official emissions tests and adjusted driving performance accordingly. In real operation, however, the cars emitted significantly more nitrogen oxides and other pollutants than permitted.
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In 2019, the company agreed to a $515 million civil settlement. The automaker also recalled and repaired more than 100,000 diesel vehicles in the United States, costing regarding $185 million.
However, the criminal case was not overturned with the latest agreement with the judicial authorities. The formal sentencing in the criminal case is scheduled for July 18. Three employees of the group have also been charged and are awaiting trial.
The diesel scandal had already become known in 2015. However, the proceedings once morest Fiat Chrysler had dragged on because the carmaker denied the allegations.
