The VW Diesel Trials' Final Chapter: Key Arguments, Timeline, and Expected Verdict in Braunschweig
Timeline
- 2015: The Dieselgate scandal erupted, revealing Volkswagen's use of deceitful software to fool emissions tests in the USA [2].
- 2021: The trial commenced in Braunschweig, centering around four former Volkswagen executives and engineers faced with fraud allegations [1][2].
- 2025: The trial concluded with both prosecution and defense delivering their closing arguments [1][2].
- May 2025: Anticipated verdict date for the trial [1][2].
A Sea of Contradictions
Following a prolonged legal battle: The ultimate decision in the Volkswagen diesel emissions scandal - Volkswagen's diesel scandal finally comes to an end after nearly four years.
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From day one, the trial before the Braunschweig Economic Crimes Chamber has been awash with conflicting viewpoints. It's one story versus another. Engineers claiming they raised concerns and warned of consequences are countered by their superiors, who assert that illegal actions were never in question.
The US Uncovers VW's Deceptive Acts
In September 2015, VW's shameful secret came to light in the USA, exposing the widespread use of a software trick enabling the recognition of emissions tests only to then activate full emission cleaning [2]. This scandal, often referred to as "Dieselgate," sent shock waves through Volkswagen, triggering the turbulent aftermath that has cost the company over €30 billion.
Elusive Winterkorn
The accused have raised concerns about the absence of former CEO Martin Winterkorn, a crucial figure in the case, from the prosecution. His case has been split due to health concerns [2].
Arguments
Prosecution's Perspective:- German prosecutors argue that the defendants intentionally engaged in a large-scale deception program, predicated on manipulating emissions tests [1][2][3].- They seek prison sentences ranging from three to four years for three defendants, while a suspended sentence is demanded for the fourth [1][2].
Defense's Response:- The defense asserts the prosecution's claims as baseless and demands acquittal for all defendants, with one defendant receiving a warning instead [2][4].- They dismiss the prosecution's arguments as "cynical" and "partly absurd," suggesting that the accusations are unverifiable [4].
Crucial Perspectives
- Defendants Respond: The accused deny all allegations, feeling they have been unfairly targeted while critical figures like Winterkorn are absent [2].
- Trial Dynamics: The trial has been a tumultuous balancing act, grappling with who knew what and when [2].
The Looming Verdict
The verdict is expected on May 26, 2025. This will mark the end of a nearly four-year trial, a significant industrial scandal in Germany [1][2].
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- Braunschweig Trial
- Prosecution
- Defense
- Trial Timeline
- The employment policies within Volkswagen, during the time of the Dieselgate scandal, are expected to be scrutinized in the trial, as engineers from the automotive industry claim they raised concerns about the deceitful software, while their superiors deny any illegal actions being in question.
- The final verdict of the Braunschweig trial, scheduled for May 2025, may have implications not only for the four accused former Volkswagen executives and engineers but also for the finance and transportation industries, as the case deals with allegations of fraudulent conduct that affected many markets globally.
