Ford has received the world's largest fine – over a billion Danish kroner – because the brand ignored a recall for too long. Ford can divide the floor into three.
The US traffic safety authority NHTSA has imposed the largest penalty in the agency's lifetime on Ford because the brand was stuck with a recall.
The fine, which corresponds to approximately 1.15 billion Danish kroner, is given to Ford for being too slow to recall cars with a defective rear camera. NHTSA judged that the automaker's intervention was too late and that it is unacceptable.
The entire stall is divided into several parts. First, Ford must pay a direct fine of DKK 456 million.
That's what Automotive News writes.
In addition, the car manufacturer must spend DKK 316 million on investments in new technology. It must improve the company's ability to analyze data.
An additional sum of DKK 386 million must only be paid if Ford does not meet NHTSA's requirements within the next three years.
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Part of the agreement requires Ford to review all recalls made within the past three years.
In addition, the company is required to change its internal procedures for decision-making in connection with future recalls. In this way, NHTSA wishes to ensure that similar errors are avoided in the future.
According to the NHTSA, there were serious delays in Ford's handling of the defective rear view cameras, which affected the safety of car owners. Failure to comply with deadlines and guidelines for recalls is a central element of the case.
"We appreciate the opportunity to resolve this matter with NHTSA and remain committed to continually improving safety and compliance at Ford," the brand said in a statement.
The fine and accompanying requirements mark a clear warning from NHTSA to the auto industry about the importance of responding quickly to safety issues.
The watchdog has long focused on ensuring that carmakers comply with their responsibilities, and the fine for Ford underscores the seriousness of ignoring such obligations.
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