US States Secure Over $149.6M Settlement From Mercedes-Benz
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Madison, Wis. A coalition of 50 state attorneys general announced Monday that Mercedes‑Benz USA and parent company Daimler AG agreed to pay $149.6 million to resolve allegations they equipped more than 211,000 diesel vehicles with software defeat devices that reduced emissions controls during normal driving. The settlement requires Mercedes to pay $120 million to states immediately, offer extended warranties nationwide, provide $2,000 per affected vehicle for eligible owners, and comply with reporting and reform requirements; $29.7 million is suspended pending consumer relief and environmental remediation. The agreement remains subject to court approval. Based on 11 articles reviewed and supporting research.
Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.
Timeline of Events
- 2008–2016: Mercedes allegedly equipped over 211,000 diesel vehicles with defeat-device software.
- 2020: Daimler and Mercedes previously settled related diesel-emissions claims in a separate large agreement.
- Aug. 1, 2023: Wisconsin reported over 39,000 affected vehicles remained unfixed or on roads.
- Dec. 22, 2023: A coalition of 50 state attorneys general announced a $149.673M settlement with Mercedes and Daimler.
- Post-announcement: Mercedes must pay $120M immediately, offer extended warranties and $2,000 per affected vehicle; $29.673M suspended pending consumer relief program completion and court approval.
- Articles Published:
- 11
- Right Leaning:
- 2
- Left Leaning:
- 0
- Neutral:
- 9
- Distribution:
- Left 0%, Center 82%, Right 18%
State governments will receive immediate settlement payments and allocation shares, while eligible vehicle owners may receive extended warranties and $2,000 per subject vehicle under the consumer relief program and related remedies.
Consumers who bought affected diesel vehicles and communities exposed to excess nitrogen-oxide emissions experienced increased pollution exposure, potential health impacts, diminished vehicle value, and Mercedes faces reputational and financial consequences from the allegations and settlement.
Coverage of Story:
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US States Secure Over $149.6M Settlement From Mercedes-Benz
Urban Milwaukee WKBN KTAR News https://www.wsaw.com https://www.wbrc.com KOIN 6 Portland Yahoo KSN-TV Post and CourierFrom Right
Arkansas one of 50 states in $149 million-plus settlement from Mercedes-Benz
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