The automaker faces lawsuits for excessive emissions from its diesel vehicles.

Volkswagen has revealed that it is engaging in settlement discussions with German consumer groups. The company confessed in 2015 to manipulating engine software to conceal emissions levels in its diesel cars. This acknowledgment led to a wave of legal actions resulting in fines exceeding 30 billion Euros for the company. Volkswagen stated, “Volkswagen and the Federation of German Consumer Organisations vzbv have agreed to engage in talks to explore a potential settlement. The discussions are in early stages, and there is no assurance of a settlement. Both parties have decided to keep the discussions confidential.”

The Federation of German Consumer Organizations represents 400,000 customers affected by the issue. New laws from 2018 have enabled the federation to initiate a class-action lawsuit.

Volkswagen encounters more challenges in North America compared to Germany. German Volkswagen diesel cars maintain their road certifications, making it more difficult for consumers to sue the company as long as they agree to a planned software update.