The automaker Renault has been charged by the French government over allegations of deception regarding its diesel emissions. The charges follow a long-running investigation by French authorities into the country’s carmakers’ compliance with emissions regulations.

The charges relate to the Dieselgate scandal, which saw many automakers, including Renault, accused of manipulating emissions testing to meet regulations.

The Renault emission claims come after the manufacturer was accused of using illegal software in its diesel vehicles to manipulate emissions tests. The software, known as “defeat devices,” was believed to have been used on many of Renault’s diesel models.

The charges against the company have been brought following a lengthy investigation, during which the automaker has denied any wrongdoing. Additionally, the company has stated that it has always pursued the law and regulations regarding emissions.

The investigation into Renault began in 2017, following a report published by the French government, which accused the automaker of using illegal emissions manipulation technology. The report stated that Renault was using defeat devices that would switch off emissions control systems in certain driving conditions, allowing cars to emit more pollutants than regulations would permit.

Renault has argued that it did not use any such devices deliberately. Despite this, the French government has taken legal action against the automaker.

The charges against Renault are part of a broader investigation into carmakers’ compliance with emissions regulations. The investigation has seen several other manufacturers, including Peugeot, charged with similar offences.

Renault’s latest legal troubles come amid a growing trend of governments and regulators taking a harder line against automakers found to have manipulated emissions tests. The company could face hefty fines if found guilty and considerable damage to its reputation in the eyes of consumers and investors.

The Renault Dieselgate claims represent a significant blow to the company, which has long been dogged by allegations of emissions manipulation. The automaker has denied any wrongdoing and will undoubtedly continue to defend itself in court. Nevertheless, the charges mark a new chapter in the ongoing Dieselgate saga and could have significant implications for the wider automotive industry.

Increasingly stringent automotive emission standards in the EU

With cities across Europe plagued by high levels of pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, governments have been forced to take action in the form of tougher regulations for automakers.

The most recent development in this area is the introduction of the Euro 6d-Temp standard, which came into effect in September 2019. It places strict limits on the amount of harmful gases emitted by passenger cars. This followed the earlier Euro 6 standard, which was implemented in 2015.

The Euro 6d-Temp standard is particularly challenging for automakers, as it requires compliance not only under laboratory testing conditions but also during on-road driving. This aims to address the issue of real-world diesel emissions, which have been found in some cases to be much higher than those measured in laboratories.

EU’s automotive emission standards are progressive, requiring further reductions in the coming years. Euro 7 is currently in development and expected to launch around 2025.

The impact of these regulations on the automotive industry is likely to be significant, but it is also an opportunity for innovation and technological progress.

Consumer rights when it comes to emissions from cars they purchase

Consumers have a vital role in making informed choices when purchasing a car. Emissions regulations vary from country to country. This means that consumers in different parts of the world may have other options available to them when it comes to choosing a low-emission vehicle.

However, regardless of where a consumer lives, there are certain things they should expect from a car manufacturer. Car manufacturers should be transparent about the emissions of their vehicles. This means providing accurate and detailed information about the vehicle’s emissions levels and fuel efficiency. It also means ensuring this information is easily accessible and understandable for the average consumer.

Consumers also have the right to expect the car they purchase meets local emissions regulations. The vehicle should be certified as being compliant with the relevant emissions standards. For example, this certification is called the Euro emissions standard in the European Union. If a consumer suspects a car is not compliant, they should contact their local environmental or consumer protection agency. In the United States, the relevant agency is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Consumers can seek redress if a car manufacturer fails to meet emissions regulations. This could include a full refund for their purchase or compensation for any costs incurred due to the non-compliant vehicle. In some cases, consumers may also be able to take legal action against the car manufacturer.

Can I claim for Renault emissions?

If you believe you own an affected vehicle, you may be entitled to emission compensation under federal and state laws.

The first step in filing a diesel emissions claim is to gather as much information as possible and determine your eligibility. Emissions.co.uk can provide you with resources and knowledge to assess your case. You can visit their website here – https://www.emissions.co.uk/manufacturers/renault/

With perseverance and the right support, you can hold your car manufacturer accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.