CHARLESTON, W.Va. — State Attorney General Patrick Morrisey announced Tuesday his office has reached a settlement with automakers Volkswagen, Porsche and Audi over the 2015 emissions controversy that was uncovered by WVU researchers.
The three companies will pay West Virginia $2.65 million.
According to a news release from Morrisey’s office, the automakers “admit using devices to cheat government emissions tests and agreed to refrain from unfair and deceptive practices in future dealings with West Virginia consumers.”
Morrisey called the settlement a huge victory for consumers.
“Trust is a crucial element to the consumer-business relationship. This should send a strong message that our office will vigorously pursue anyone whose actions erode that relationship,” Morrisey said.
The state sued Volkswagen in 2015. It chose not to be part of a multistate settlement. Morrisey’s office claims that move saved the state money in legal fees and likely increased its settlement amount.
Studies by the WVU Center for Alternative Fuels, Engines and Emissions proved some Volkswagen vehicles were emitting 10 to 40 times more nitrogen oxide than the allowable limit.
The news release from Morrisey’s office said Porsche and Audi are part of the settlement because of their association with Volkswagen.