Ex-VW executivos condenados por fraude em escândalo de emissões
Four VW Executives Found Guilty in Emissions Scandal That Reshaped Europe’s Auto Industry
Four former Volkswagen executives have been sentenced to prison for their involvement in the emissions-cheating scandal that drastically altered Europe’s automotive landscape. The verdict, issued after a three-year trial in Braunschweig, Germany, closes another chapter in a decade-long saga that redefined the continent’s reliance on diesel technology.
Jens Hadler, former head of diesel engine development, received the longest sentence—four and a half years—for masterminding what the court described as “particularly serious” fraud. His team implemented software that detected emissions tests, artificially lowering pollution levels during inspections while allowing vehicles to emit excessive pollutants under normal driving conditions.
The repercussions of the scandal extended well beyond corporate penalties. Before 2015, diesel cars dominated Europe’s auto market, accounting for over 50% of sales and promoted as eco-friendly alternatives to gasoline vehicles. Today, diesel’s market share has plummeted to just 10%.
The controversy also accelerated Europe’s shift toward electric mobility. Electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids now make up 25% of new car sales, with Volkswagen emerging as the continent’s top EV manufacturer. In April alone, the German automaker sold three times as many battery-powered cars as Tesla.
This landmark case underscores the lasting impact of corporate misconduct on industry trends and consumer trust. As Europe continues its push toward sustainable transportation, the fallout from Volkswagen’s deception serves as a cautionary tale for automakers worldwide.
Por InfoRadar
