Mercedes-Benz resolves civil environmental and consumer protection claims

Settlements reached with multiple US state attorneys general.

Mercedes-Benz has avoided lengthy and costly proceedings in connection with civil environmental and consumer protection claims in the US by settling with multiple state attorneys general, subject to final court approval.

The claims involved the emission control systems of Model Year 2009 to 2016 BlueTEC II diesel passenger cars and vans.

According to the German automaker, the settlement resolves all material remaining legal proceedings that relate to diesel emissions in the US.

In reaching agreement with the various states, Mercedes-Benz maintained its position on the claims, which alleged that the car manufacturer had cheated diesel emissions tests.

"Whilst the company has cooperated fully with the state attorneys general, Mercedes-Benz continues to regard the accusations made as unfounded and denies any liability to the US states or otherwise," stated the firm.

As part of the multistate settlements, Mercedes-Benz agreed to pay an initial total settlement amount of $120m. It will also undertake a new Approved Emission Modification Installation Incentive Programme.