Four former Volkswagen executives received prison sentences for their roles in a decade-long emissions cheating scandal. Jens Hadler received the longest sentence of four and a half years, while others received lesser sentences, some suspended. The scheme involved manipulating software to cheat emissions tests, resulting in excessive pollution and costing Volkswagen over $30 billion in penalties. The scandal damaged consumer trust and accelerated the shift towards electric vehicles. More former employees still face charges.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.