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VW Won’t Settle Diesel Lawsuit in Germany

Volkswagen AG has rejected a judge’s suggestion that it settle a class-action lawsuit in Germany on behalf of some 470,000 diesel owners who claim VW’s diesel cheating caused them economic harm.
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Volkswagen AG has rejected a judge’s suggestion that it settle a class-action lawsuit in Germany on behalf of some 470,000 diesel owners who claim VW’s diesel cheating caused them economic harm.

The lawsuit has been described as the country’s largest legal claim ever. It was made possible by new legislation that allows consumer advocacy groups to file lawsuits on behalf of consumers, rather than requiring each plaintiff to file a separate complaint.

VW insists the case has no merit. It asserts that affected diesel owners have continued to drive their cars—almost all of which have been reprogrammed for cleaner operation—with no adverse impact on performance or resale value.

Yesterday, one member of the three-judge panel of the Higher Regional Court of Brunswick suggested that VW’s position may be correct. Media reports say the lawsuit could take four years to settle, unless VW agrees to settle it sooner.

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