The six largest vehicle manufacturers in the US, Ford, GM, Chrysler, Toyota, Nissan and Honda, have asked a US federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit by the state of California that accuses them of harming human health and the environment by producing vehicles that contribute to global warming.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more


According to the Associated Press, the companies filed a motion in US District Court in Oakland on Friday, for California’s suit to be tossed out.


The lawyer representing the vehicle manufacturers said state officials should reduce automotive emissions through regulation rather than litigation.


Califronia’s suit was filed in September by state attorney general Bill Lockyer. Lockyer is seeking potentially billions of dollars of damage to water supplies, coastline, forests, wildlife and public health.


“Basically, what we are saying is it’s old-fashioned economics. You should pay for the damage you cause,” Lockyer said in an interview with the LA Times in September.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Gloria Bergquist, a spokeswoman for the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, said, “Using nuisance suits to address global warming would involve the courts in deciding political questions beyond their jurisdiction. This opens the door to lawsuits targeting any activity that uses fossil fuel for energy.”


Vehicle manufacturers are also in dispute with the state of California over a 2002 law requiring them to cut emissions. Under the law, the California Air Resources Board has adopted standards designed to cut carbon-dioxide emissions from cars and light trucks by 25% and from sport utility vehicles by 18% starting in 2009.  That law has since been copied by 10 other states.


The automotive industry is challenging those regulations, arguing such reductions can only come from stricter fuel-economy standards, which are the province of the US government. That case is expected to go to trial on 30 January.