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Car Giants Fined €600M for Recycling Collusion

4/2/2025

Summary

Volkswagen Fined for Collusion

Fifteen major car manufacturers, including Volkswagen, have been hit with nearly €600 million in fines by the European Commission and the UK's Competition and Markets Authority for colluding on vehicle recycling practices. The cartel, uncovered by Mercedes-Benz, aimed to dodge payments to dismantlers and keep consumers in the dark about recycling efforts. Volkswagen bore the brunt with a €127 million fine, while Mercedes-Benz escaped punishment for blowing the whistle.

Summary

European Commission Proposes Extension

The European Commission is considering a significant shift, proposing to extend the deadline for carmakers to meet 2025 CO2 emissions targets from one year to three. This move seeks to ease pressure as electric vehicle sales falter, potentially averting hefty fines. However, the ambitious 2035 zero-emission goal stands firm, awaiting approval from the European Parliament and member states.

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Volkswagen Fined for Collusion

Fifteen major car manufacturers, including Volkswagen, have been hit with nearly €600 million in fines by the European Commission and the UK's Competition and Markets Authority for colluding on vehicle recycling practices. The cartel, uncovered by Mercedes-Benz, aimed to dodge payments to dismantlers and keep consumers in the dark about recycling efforts. Volkswagen bore the brunt with a €127 million fine, while Mercedes-Benz escaped punishment for blowing the whistle.

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