What is the lawsuit against major automakers about?

Automakers are accused of installing "defeat devices" to cheat emissions tests, leading to higher pollution levels and thousands of premature deaths.

How many diesel cars in the UK are affected by the alleged emissions cheating?

Lawyers estimate around 500,000 diesel cars in the UK are equipped with the "defeat devices" that allow higher pollution levels.

Home / Environment / Automakers on Trial for Alleged Emissions Cheating, Thousands of Lives at Stake

Automakers on Trial for Alleged Emissions Cheating, Thousands of Lives at Stake

15 Nov

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Summary

Carmakers accused of installing "defeat devices" to cheat emissions tests
Lawsuit claims 500,000 diesel cars in UK emitting higher pollution levels
Nitrogen dioxide pollution linked to over 124,000 premature deaths in UK and Europe

Automakers on Trial for Alleged Emissions Cheating, Thousands of Lives at Stake

In a landmark trial that began on October 13, 2025, several major automakers are facing allegations of installing "prohibited defeat devices" to cheat emissions tests. The lawsuit claims that while these vehicles passed emissions tests, they were actually emitting higher levels of nitrogen dioxide pollution when in regular operation.

The trial focuses on Mercedes, Ford, Nissan, and Peugeot/Citroën, but other manufacturers like Jaguar Land Rover, Volkswagen, and Toyota are also involved. Lawyers estimate that around 500,000 diesel cars with this technology are currently on UK roads.