- Japanese manufacturer Hino Motors agreed to the payouts in December
- The suit said emissions exceeded legal limits. The deadline is next month
- Those who drive or own models built between 2011 and 2021 could qualify
Drivers of a certain type of truck could miss out on payouts of up to $15,000 as part of a class-action settlement worth $237.5 million – as the collection deadline is just weeks away
Japanese manufacturer Hino Motors agreed to the payout after being hit with allegations over CO2 emissions from certain models, producing emissions in excess of legal limits.
As a result, Americans who drive or have owned the company’s models built between 2011 and 2021 could receive a payment — ranging between $1,500 and $15,000, depending on the type of truck.
Hino is a Toyota company that primarily sells medium-duty trucks used for business transportation and delivery. The company – headquartered in Tokyo – has not admitted any wrongdoing but has agreed to a settlement to resolve the lawsuit.
However, drivers now have just weeks to submit their claims as the June 17 deadline approaches.
Hino truck drivers could miss out on payouts of up to $15,000 as part of a $237.5 million class action settlement – as the collection deadline is just weeks away
Americans with Hino 155 and 195 trucks from model years 2013-2020 are eligible, as are Hino 238, 258, 268 and 338 trucks from model years 2011-2020.
Some 2021 Hino L6 and L7 trucks are also eligible, for former lessees and owner-lessees.
Those who drive or have previously owned certain models may also be eligible for cash – while those who are unsure can check their eligibility by connecting their Vehicle Identification Member (VIN) to a plug-in into the website.
In a 2022 statement, the company “identified misconduct” related to emissions compliance – paving the way for the now-settled class action.
It claimed that Hino trucks regularly deliver lower fuel economy during normal operation than those emitted during the test phase, resulting in emissions that exceed federal regulations.
Plaintiffs further alleged that Hino knew its trucks delivered better fuel economy than promised but deliberately concealed this from consumers and regulators.
As payments are disbursed, 60 percent of the compensation per truck will be allocated to the original owner and 40 percent of the compensation will be distributed to any subsequent owners.
Japanese manufacturer Hino Motors agreed to the payout after being hit with allegations over CO2 emissions from certain models, producing emissions in excess of legal limits. Here you can see the company’s US base in Michigan
To receive benefits under the Hino Emissions Scheme, group members must submit a valid claim form mid-month or miss out on the entire month.
To ensure you get paid, make sure you provide proof of ownership showing the vehicle’s title, registration and purchase agreement, as well as insurance papers or other documentation showing both the truck owner’s name and the truck’s VIN the vehicle appears.
It is not known when the checks will be sent, but the application will only take a few minutes.