The High Court in London begins hearing a vast diesel emissions case involving major law firm changes and more than one point six million claimants against Mercedes Ford Nissan Renault and Peugeot Citroën with opening slated for Monday and expected to run for weeks.
The claims centre on alleged defeat devices that cut emissions in lab tests while allowing higher pollution on the road. Campaigners say this is the largest consumer case of its kind in England and Wales with potential liabilities in the billions and comes a decade after the Volkswagen case over its cheating emission tests.
Thirteen of the world’s biggest carmakers are defending a multibillion pound lawsuit over whether they all deceived regulators about harmful gases produced by diesel vehicles.
Public health stakes are front and centre with estimates that pollution tied to the scandal has driven thousands of premature deaths across the UK.
Case management has been rocky. Pogust Goodhead sought to step down as joint lead solicitor days before the start while Leigh Day confirmed the courtroom timetable. Defence teams say the claimant side remains in flux. The court will test technical evidence first with damages issues to follow.
What changed and why it matters now
A trial is finally underway after years of procedural trench warfare. The court will examine whether the systems used in selected models count as prohibited defeat devices and whether any coordination occurred between manufacturers. Findings here will set parameters for settlement talks through 2026
FAQ
Q What is the immediate impact for clients?
A Fleet and finance clients should map exposure by model year and prepare communications for owners and lenders.
Q What is a key ruling to watch for?
A Any ruling that narrows the definition of a prohibited defeat device
Q How likely is further movement this week
A Procedural skirmishes over disclosure and expert scope are likely in the first sitting days. L
Q Where can I read background on the lead firms?
A See FT on the leadership request and Leigh Day’s trial note – and of course read LawFuel for our reports on Goodhead Pogust and the Leigh Day situation with the case.
