VW prepares for next recall, apologizes to Korean consumers

Following Volkswagen’s emissions scandal in Korea that resulted in an order to recall 27,000 Tiguan SUVs starting next month, the Ministry of Environment announced Thursday that VW’s next recall plan involves roughly 15,000 CC mid-size sedans.

According to the ministry, the German carmaker is currently negotiating the terms of the recall. The measure is expected to be approved by the ministry sometime in the middle of next month.

Approximately 126,000 VW vehicles in Korea are expected to be recalled following an investigation that accused Audi Volkswagen Korea of using a “defeat device” to illegally alter emissions readings to meet environmental standards.

On Wednesday, VW Executive Francisco Javier Garcia Sanz visited the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office to discuss matters involving the emissions scandal as well as issues related to the 956 vehicles that were confiscated by the prosecution last June.

The vehicles were confiscated from their pre-delivery inspection center in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi Province. The prosecution said the cars were imported without proper environmental authorization.

During a press conference at the prosecutors’ office, Sanz apologized to local consumers for the disappointment and inconvenience caused by Audi Volkswagen Korea’s emissions scandal, vowing that the company is committed to regaining their trust. 

VW Korea has also been under fire after it was revealed the automaker agreed to a $14.7 billion settlement deal with the US Government that would allow 475,000 US consumers to receive compensation payouts of up to $10,000 each. In contrast, consumers in Korea were only promised 1 million won ($850) for car repairs and an inspection coupon.

When asked about the company’s compensation plans for Koreans, Sanz stated that nothing has been finalized and it is still an ongoing issue.

By Julie Jackson (juliejackson@heraldcorp.com)