Summary of the Infringement
On 1 April 2025, the European Commission concluded its investigation into a coordinated infringement involving fifteen automotive manufacturers and the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA). The cartel operated from May 2002 to September 2017.
Key Findings
- The participants jointly agreed not to compensate ELV dismantlers.
- They exchanged commercially sensitive information and aligned their strategies.
- They suppressed environmental competition by agreeing not to advertise recyclability or use of recycled materials.
- The Commission imposed fines totalling €458 million
- The decision constitutes a binding finding of liability under Article 101 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU).
Implications for Recyclers
Authorized Treatment Facilities (ATFs) and dismantlers were unlawfully denied fair compensation for regulatory-compliant ELV processing. These practices distorted market dynamics, violated competition law, and disproportionately harmed the recycling sector.
Now that liability has been established, affected entities may pursue damages. LitFin is prepared to support these claims through financing, coordination, and litigation management.
