Engine manufacturer Cummins Inc. has agreed to a $2 billion settlement with federal and California authorities over the use of illegal software in its diesel engines, which allowed the company to cheat emissions tests. The settlement includes a $1.675 billion civil penalty under the Clean Air Act and $325 million for environmental remediation. A total of 600,000 Ram trucks equipped with Cummins engines will be recalled as part of the settlement.
The software in question limited nitrogen oxide pollution during emissions tests but allowed for higher pollution during normal operations. The settlement also includes penalties for unreported emissions control software in certain trucks. Cummins denies the allegations made by the government but has agreed to the financial commitments outlined in the settlement.
The company will also make up for excess emissions of nitrogen oxides resulting from its actions. The Clean Air Act aims to reduce air pollution and protect human health by setting emission limits for vehicles. The settlement with Cummins follows other notable emissions cheating cases in the auto industry, including Volkswagen’s Dieselgate scandal and Fiat Chrysler’s unauthorized software in some vehicles.
Experts emphasize the importance of deterring companies from violating emissions standards to protect public health and combat climate change. Diesel exhaust can have harmful effects on human health, including respiratory issues and asthma. The settlement with Cummins serves as a reminder of the consequences of cheating emissions regulations in the transportation sector.
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