In Germany, four former Volkswagen employees have been convicted of fraud for their involvement in the diesel emissions scandal. The former head of diesel engine development received a 4.5-year prison sentence, while the ex-head of drive electronics was sentenced to 2 years and 7 months. Two other high-ranking former employees received suspended sentences of 1 year and 7 months, and 1 year and 3 months, respectively. The defendants can still appeal the verdict.
The case revolves around the manipulation of diesel engine test results using software, making the engines appear cleaner than they actually were. The scandal came to light in the US in 2015, leading to the resignation of then-CEO Martin Winterkorn. Volkswagen suffered billions in losses due to fines, compensations, and reputational damage.
The Braunschweig Public Prosecutor's Office has indicted 31 other suspects in this case. Originally, Winterkorn was also supposed to stand trial, but the case against him was suspended in 2021 due to health reasons. He is now 78, and it remains unclear whether the case will resume. He also faces potential legal action in the US.
