Stellantis unit FCA US has agreed to a $4.2 million settlement following a California investigation into excess emissions from diesel-powered Ram ProMaster vehicles. The settlement highlights ongoing scrutiny of automakers’ compliance with air quality regulations and the environmental impact of unapproved emissions devices.
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Details of the Settlement
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) announced that the settlement resolves violations related to unapproved devices in 2014–2016 Ram ProMaster 1500, 2500, and 3500 models equipped with 3.0L diesel engines. These devices circumvented emissions control systems, releasing approximately 55 tons of excess oxides of nitrogen into the air.
To address the violations, Stellantis has committed to recalling the affected vehicles and modifying their emissions control systems to meet state regulations.
Financial Breakdown of the $4.2M Settlement
The settlement funds will be allocated to two key areas:
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- Civil Penalty: Over $2 million will go to California’s Air Pollution Control Fund, supporting programs to improve air quality.
- Environmental Project: Approximately $2.1 million will fund a project providing incentives for ocean-going cargo vessels to slow down in specific areas during peak whale and ozone seasons. This initiative aims to enhance both wildlife protection and air quality.
A Pattern of Violations
This is not the first time FCA US has faced penalties for emissions-related violations. Notable cases include:
- 2022 Settlement: Stellantis paid $5.6 million to California for similar allegations involving gas-powered vehicles.
- 2019 Defeat Device Allegations: California settled with FCA over the use of “defeat device software” in over 100,000 diesel vehicles nationwide, resulting in $500 million in fines, with California receiving $78 million.
- Federal Probe: In June 2022, FCA US pleaded guilty to criminal conspiracy in a U.S. Department of Justice investigation into diesel emissions fraud, agreeing to a $300 million penalty.
Environmental and Regulatory Impact
The violations highlight the environmental damage caused by non-compliance with emissions standards. Excess nitrogen oxides contribute to smog, respiratory issues, and environmental degradation. California’s stringent air quality regulations aim to combat these effects, holding automakers accountable for deceptive practices.
CARB’s Executive Officer underscored the importance of maintaining emissions integrity: “Unapproved devices that bypass emissions controls not only damage air quality but also undermine public trust.”
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Steps Toward Compliance
Stellantis’ recall of the non-compliant vehicles is part of the settlement agreement to bring the models into compliance with California’s air quality standards. By addressing these violations, the company seeks to rebuild trust and align with state and federal environmental goals.
Looking Ahead
The Stellantis settlement is a stark reminder of the auto industry’s responsibility to prioritize environmental compliance. As California continues to enforce strict air quality standards, automakers must adapt to regulatory expectations or face steep penalties.
For consumers, the case underscores the importance of environmental accountability in the automotive sector. With ongoing federal and state-level investigations, the spotlight remains firmly on corporate responsibility and sustainable practices.
