Sentence next for Volkswagen in US diesel emissions scandal

Detroit: Volkswagen and the US government are asking a judge to approve a USD 2.8 billion criminal penalty against the automaker for cheating on diesel emissions tests.

Federal Judge Sean Cox is holding a hearing today in Detroit, six weeks after the German automaker pleaded guilty to conspiracy and obstruction of justice. The judge wanted more time to consider the plea deal and fine negotiated by VW and the US Justice Department.

VW admits that nearly 600,000 diesel cars in the US were programmed to turn on pollution controls during testing and off while on the road.

Separately, VW is paying USD 1.5 billion in a civil case brought by the government and spending USD 11 billion to buy back cars and offer other compensation. Seven employees have also been charged.