Renault diesel emissions investigations lead to charge for carmaker

The Renault diesel emissions investigations in France have now given way to a charge relating to alleged deceit against the carmaker, whom prosecutors have reportedly accused of test-cheating and emissions software manipulation. Renault continues to dispute the allegations, but given the widespread emissions scandal affecting the car industry, the carmaker looks set to face further scrutiny in the courts.

In 2015, the Volkswagen ‘dieselgate’ scandal first hit the headlines after VW was accused of using illegal defeat device technology in its diesel vehicles as a means of manipulating their emissions output during testing. Since then, the majority of major carmakers have been subjected to similar allegations, leading to billions of pounds in fines and potential compensation pay-outs internationally.

Your Lawyers was the first firm to initiate formal High Court proceedings against Volkswagen in England and Wales, and were later appointed to the Steering Committee responsible for the overall conduct of the Group Litigation Order. Now, we want to ensure that all those affected by emissions irregularities have a chance to claim the compensation they could be entitled to in our emissions group actions.

The Renault diesel emissions investigations and the recent charge

In 2017, it was revealed that French prosecutors had begun formal Renault diesel emissions investigations. Allegations against Renault had already been circulating, and the lawyers began the investigations on the basis of findings in independent testing, which allegedly indicated that Renault diesel vehicles might have been producing dangerous, illegal quantities of Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) emissions.

Renault has denied the allegations of deceitful test cheating throughout, disputing the claims that it manipulated engine software to cheat regulatory emissions testing. Now, the company has renewed its denial, but the recent charge has nevertheless forced Renault to reportedly pay a bail in the amount of €20 million with a bank guarantee in the sum of €60 million to cover any fines and compensation pay-outs.

Compensation claims for those affected

The legal action in France could be an indication of what is to come for affected car owners here in the UK. As part of our own Renault diesel emissions investigations, we are taking on claims for owners in England and Wales who may have been affected by Renault’s alleged emissions cheating.

If Renault is found guilty of deceit here, the company and its dealerships could be liable to pay compensation to the customers that may have been misled. Depending on the basis on which the claims are brought, claimants may be due to receive thousands or even tens of thousands of pounds in compensation if allegations are proven to be true.

Make your claim today

We are taking on claims against a number of notable car manufacturers, whom we are determined to hold to account where necessary if allegations of cheating transpire to be true. Our pioneering role in emissions litigation means that we have the knowledge and experience required to hold these major companies to account.

As the Renault diesel emissions investigations continue, we can take on eligible claimants on the basis of No Win, No Fee representation. To sign up, you can register your details in our online form, or contact our team for free, no-obligation advice on your case.