[THE INVESTOR] Nissan Korea has lost its suit against the state’s sales ban decision on Qashqai crossover for fabricating emission tests, a local court announced on Feb. 9
The Seoul Administrative Court has dismissed the case filed by Nissan Korea in June 2016, calling for nullification of the government’s decision.
In May, the Ministry of Environment slapped a fine of 340 million won (US$295,827) and banned sales of Qashqai crossover after the automaker allegedly manipulated emission results. It also ordered a recall of 814 cars that were sold in the market.
The court said it believed Nissan Korea used the defeat device, also known as the exhaust gas recirculation, to decrease the amount of nitrogen oxide released during the emissions test.
“We acknowledge Nissan received a certification with false and illegal means,” the court said in its ruling.
However, Nissan Korea said it did not use an illegal defeat device or manipulate emission tests, adding the court decision is “regretful.”
The automaker said it would consider all possible measures when asked if the automaker will appeal the ruling.
By Ahn Sung-mi (sahn@heraldcorp.com)