VW Emission Claims - Update 27 October 2015

A large number of vehicle owners have registered with Gibson Sheat, expressing their interest in joining a group claim for loss and damage arising out of the emissions scandal affecting Volkswagen, Audi and Skoda diesel vehicles in New Zealand. The number of registrations is increasing steadily. Registration is still open to affected vehicle owners.

On 23 October 2015, we wrote to Volkswagen NZ, expressing the anger and disappointment of affected vehicle owners and seeking answers to a number of initial questions. In particular, we have asked for clarification of whether the affected vehicles sold in New Zealand comply with the EU (or other) emissions standards that were specified in their entry certification documentation (and in the promotional material relating to those vehicles). This is not clear from the Volkswagen NZ website or the correspondence that has been sent to affected vehicle owners. We have also asked for information about the proposed “fix”. In particular as to what it is designed to achieve, what it will involve, when it will occur and what analysis is being carried out on the potential effects of the “fix” on vehicles.

We have proposed a meeting with Volkswagen NZ so that we can discuss how Volkswagen NZ proposes to compensate affected vehicle owners.

We are awaiting a response from Volkswagen NZ to our letter and to our proposal for a meeting.