FCA Will Plead Guilty In Emissions Fraud Probe, Pay $300M Fine: Report

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has negotiated a plea deal with the US Department of Justice during its years-long investigation into emissions fraud with certain Ram and Jeep vehicles. Based on Reutersthe company will plead guilty to criminal conduct and face a fine of more than $300 million.

The diesel-powered Ram 1500 pickup truck and the Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV from 2014 to 2016 were the subject of investigation. In 2017, the EPA issued a breach notice to the FCA for alleged violations of the Clean Air Act. The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 is said to emit increased levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx) in certain driving situations, particularly at higher speeds, using engine management software that was not disclosed to the EPA for testing. As a result, emission levels are higher under certain driving conditions.

In 2021, FCA becomes part of the Stellantis conglomerate of more than a dozen automakers. Motor1.com contacted Stellantis for a statement on the settlement, but a reply was not received prior to publication. Reuters said a formal announcement of the plea deal could come as early as next week.

This is not the first resolution the FCA has reached on this issue. In early 2019, the automaker settled civil, environmental, and consumer claims regarding diesel emission violations, ultimately paying an $800 million fine. Additionally, recall notices for approximately 100,000 Ram and Jeep vehicles were issued for updated engine software, fixing emission issues. At the time, FCA said the software update would not affect fuel consumption or overall drivability. However, Consumer reports claims that Ram and Jeep owners experience a marked reduction in power and economy.

In addition to this guilty plea, Reuters reported that an FCA employee would face a misleading regulatory suit regarding the matter. An indictment allegedly claims that the individual conspired to install a crushing device to bypass the vehicle during testing. The FCA previously stated no such device was used, and in the 2019 settlement, the company remained in its position without acknowledging any emission rule violations.