U.S. Engine Maker Will Pay $1.6 Billion to Settle Claims of Emissions Cheating
New York TimesDEC 25 2023
GM to Pay Nearly $146M in Penalties for Excess Car Emissions
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The Facts
The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said on Wednesday that General Motors will pay $145.8M in penalties and forfeit over 30.6M fuel credits to settle fuel economy compliance issues.
Additionally, the automaker agreed to cancel 50M metric tons of carbon allowances following a multi-year investigation by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that uncovered excessive emissions from nearly 6M of its vehicles.
According to EPA, 2012-2018 model year vehicles, including the Chevrolet Equinox SUV, were found to be emitting over 10% higher CO2 on average than the manufacturer had initially reported.
The Spin
Narrative A
This settlement demonstrates how important the EPA's light-duty vehicle-in-use testing program is to ensure that vehicles meet the standard requirements so as to reduce air pollution and deliver the intended benefits. Automakers will only comply if there is strong oversight and accountability.
Narrative B
This settlement does resolve issues between General Motors and the federal government, but by no means does it equal an admission of any wrongdoing or noncompliance with regulations. The automaker has long been committed to reducing auto emissions and to achieving the fleet electrification goals.
Metaculus Prediction
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