Fiat parent company sued over alleged "Dieselgate" software in campers

Stichting Car Claim, together with the Consumers’ Association, Consumenten Claim, and the Dutch Campervan Club, is taking legal action against Stellantis over suspected cheating software in campervans. The parties have not disclosed the size of the claim.

The groups are urging owners of Fiat diesel campervans, part of Stellantis, to report themselves. They cite independent studies indicating that Euro 5 and Euro 6 diesel models are equipped with defeat device software, causing the vehicles to emit significantly more pollutants than allowed by law.

Sandra Molenaar, director of the Consumers’ Association, explains that the organization backs the lawsuit, citing serious harm to buyers: “A camper that fails to meet legal standards loses value, and consumers should have the right to have it repaired at no cost.”

Last summer, an Amsterdam court ruled that Opel, Peugeot, DS, and Citroën, brands under Stellantis, had sold “dieselgate” vehicles in the Netherlands since 2009. “We urge Stellantis to take this clear verdict seriously and start discussions with us on a fair resolution,” said Car Claim chairman Guido van Woerkom after the ruling. The foundation also indicated it would seek compensation from Stellantis through lawsuits.

Stellantis is not the only automaker caught up in defeat device scandals in recent years. Brands such as Volkswagen, Renault, and Mercedes have been found to manipulate emissions data. The issue has led to hefty fines, and multiple manufacturers are currently facing class-action claims.