Emissions output irregularities are not limited to the passenger car industry. Diesel engine manufacturer, Cummins Inc. (Cummins), announced its plan to recall approximately 500,000 trucks manufactured between 2010 and 2015 for defective emissions control systems. The recall represents the most expansive voluntary recall of medium and heavy-duty trucks due to emissions issues until now.
But the emissions issues detected in Cummins trucks are not the result of cheat devices like those found in other manufacturer’s vehicles such as Volkswagen. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Cummins recall is linked to a faulty emissions control system that was installed in the engines. The trucks contain selective catalytic reduction systems that are intended to limit emissions output. The faulty selective catalytic systems corroded within a few years rather than continuing to control the amount of nitrogen oxide pollution released into the air. The defective system instead released excessive amounts of nitrogen oxide.
The emissions system defect was detected by the EPA and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) during independent testing. The conclusions reported by the EPA and CARB were later corroborated by Cummins in further testing. After testing was completed, Cummins agreed to initiate the recall.
The vehicles subject to the recall include large pickups and semi-trucks. Cummins plan to implement the recall in multiple phases. In August, 2018, owners of heavy-duty engine trucks will be notified of the fix. In March, 2019, owners of medium-duty engines will receive notification of the recall. Cummins engines were involved in a previous recall of 232,000 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks. The engine manufacturer has dedicated $181 million to cover these expenses.
Overall, issues involving diesel emissions have improved significantly over the last few years. Stricter EPA regulations have helped minimize emissions problems in diesel vehicles, but experts acknowledge that the diesel industry is still learning how to deal with emissions regulations.
Despite emissions scandals and recalls, truck industry experts insist that diesel engines in commercial cars are here to stay. Diesel technology is constantly improving and technological advancements have had the effect of creating space for more diesel-powered vehicles in the market.
If you or a member of your family suffered injury or death as a result of negligence or a defective automobile, contact the attorneys Alexander Law Group, LLP. Our exceptional personal injury lawyers will answer your questions and get you the maximum compensation that is possible. Call 888.777.1776 or contact us online.
