ACM launches investigation into Volkswagen

The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) is launching an investigation into car manufacturer Volkswagen. ACM wishes to find out whether Volkswagen has violated consumer protection rules by installing modified software in diesel cars. This investigation was triggered by the request filed with ACM by the Dutch Consumers Association (Consumentenbond) asking ACM to launch such an investigation.

Why will ACM carry out this investigation?

According to a Volkswagen statement, approximately 160,000 cars in the Netherlands have been sold (to consumers) in which specific software had been installed that was able to manipulate emission tests. In a request for enforcement, the Dutch Consumers Association asks ACM to investigate whether these consumers were misled when buying their cars. ACM will agree to this request.

ACM will investigate whether or not consumer protection regulations have been violated such as the Dutch Unfair Commercial Practices Act (OHP). The investigation is expected to be completed in the first half of 2017.