Volkswagen diesel scandal – first Swiss VW owner receives compensation after legal action – News
The emissions scandal at Volkswagen (VW) has shaken the entire automotive industry in the past. Six years after the manipulation of millions of diesel engines became public, there is now a first judgment in Switzerland: The civil court in Geneva has ruled that a buyer will be reimbursed the value of the car plus interest.
According to the owner of a VW Touran in Geneva, his car was not properly converted by the Volkswagen importer Amag after the diesel scandal in order to meet emissions standards in Switzerland. As evidence, the owner is to draw up an appraisal.
Amag requested a counter-opinion, which the court refused. It has now decided in the first instance that Amag must reimburse the buyer for the used value of 15,000 francs.
Successful legal process
The Foundation for Consumer Protection had a criminal complaint on behalf of 6000 victims at the federal court for formal reasons. It is all the more important for Sara Stalder, Managing Director of Consumer Protection, that the Geneva civil court has ruled differently in this case:
“That is the first important judgment that does justice to the situation when you compare what has happened in other countries: Billions were repaid. So far nothing has happened in Switzerland. That is why this judgment is a ray of hope. “
Amag moves on
The VW general importer Amag sees it differently: In writing, the company states: “This judgment only affects a specific vehicle belonging to a single plaintiff. In general, we state that according to the Astra, the EA 189 motors meet the applicable standards after the software update and are approved for traffic. ” Amag therefore wants to move the judgment on.
The importer also has to pay the procedural and legal costs. In a letter, the lawyer for the car owner asked Volkswagen and Amag to compensate all affected clients six years after the “Dieselgate” affair became known.
Millions of vehicles manipulated
During the emissions scandal, millions of diesel vehicles were manipulated at Volkswagen in such a way that.
Around 175,000 car buyers and lessees are said to have been affected by the manipulation in Switzerland. About two weeks ago, the Swiss Federal Prosecutor’s Office announced that they wanted to discontinue criminal proceedings against Volkswagen and Amag. There is insufficient basis for issuing a penalty order or for bringing charges.
