Stellantis NV's FCA US unit has agreed to pay $4.2 million to settle a California investigation into emissions violations. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) found that certain models of the Ram ProMaster vehicles, specifically those manufactured between 2014 and 2016 and equipped with 3.0L diesel engines, were using unapproved devices that circumvented emissions controls. This resulted in nearly 55 tons of excess nitrogen oxides being released into the atmosphere, violating state air quality standards.

The settlement includes a $2 million civil penalty that will be directed to the state's Air Pollution Control Fund and $2.1 million to fund a project aimed at reducing emissions from ocean-going vessels during peak whale and ozone seasons. This initiative is expected to provide both wildlife and air quality benefits.

This settlement follows a series of similar issues for Stellantis. In 2022, the company paid $5.6 million to California for similar allegations involving gas-powered vehicles. Additionally, in a separate federal investigation, FCA US pleaded guilty to criminal conspiracy and agreed to pay about $300 million in 2022 to resolve a U.S. Justice Department diesel emissions fraud investigation.

The vehicles involved in the current settlement will be recalled and modified to comply with state regulations. This action is part of Stellantis' ongoing efforts to address past compliance issues and improve its environmental impact.

Critics argue that the financial penalties imposed on Stellantis may not be sufficient to deter future violations, especially considering the broader context of environmental harm and the company's history of emissions-related settlements. However, the recall and modification of affected vehicles are seen as positive steps towards mitigating the damage caused by the excess emissions.