The cargo ship Felicity Ace caught fire in the tragic events of February 2022. It eventually gave way to the Atlantic Ocean's depths. Sadly, around four thousand cars perished in the fire, most of them brand-new cars from the Volkswagen Group's assortment of brands. Nevertheless, the fallout turns into a legal drama, with the multinational corporation entangled in not one, but two lawsuits.

Lawsuits VS Volkswagen Group: Felicity Ace Cargo Ship Demise

Verifying the seriousness of the situation, an official from the car company disclosed that it is involved in civil lawsuit related to the tragic fate of the Felicity Ace in a German court. According to Morning Star's report, this maritime tragedy, which unfolded off the coast of Portugal's Azores islands, has cast a shadow over Volkswagen Group, given that the cargo vessel was laden with a cargo manifest featuring models from Audi, Porsche, and Volkswagen's eponymous marque.

Morning Star cited Bloomberg's report on Tuesday, the ongoing lawsuits suggest that the ignition of the blaze aboard the Felicity Ace cargo ship was purportedly triggered by a Porsche battery. These claims, sourced from a spokesperson at a Stuttgart court, highlight the intricate legal battle surrounding the incident.

Among the plaintiffs named in these proceedings are ship owner Mitsui OSK Lines and insurance provider Allianz. The legal narrative takes a complex turn with insights suggesting that the case filed in Stuttgart has been underway for a year, albeit temporarily halted due to ongoing settlement negotiations concerning a separate lawsuit, also detailed by Bloomberg.

Motor1.com reports that further dialogues between the concerned entities are slated for later this month. Should a resolution remain elusive, the legal proceedings will recommence. Pertaining to documents linked to the initial 2023 legal action, the plaintiffs level accusations against Volkswagen Group, suggesting concealment of critical information regarding the hazards inherent in ferrying electrically powered vehicles.

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Furthermore, the lawsuit lodged in the Stuttgart court contends that Volkswagen Group neglected to divulge essential safety protocols for the transportation of these automobiles. A spokesperson representing Volkswagen AG has acknowledged the receipt of civil lawsuits within Germany pertaining to the sinking of the 'Felicity Ace.'

In adherence to the ongoing nature of these legal proceedings, the company refrains from providing additional commentary at present. Despite outreach, Mitsui, Allianz, and the Stuttgart court have yet to furnish responses to requests for comment.

How the Incident Started

As disclosed by Bloomberg, the origins of the incident trace back to a Porsche electric vehicle, notably the Taycan model. Notably, Volkswagen Group offers a diverse range of plug-in hybrid variants within its Cayenne and Panamera lineups, featuring smaller battery capacities. While the parent company, Volkswagen, has acknowledged the existence of the two ongoing legal disputes, Mitsui OSK Lines and Allianz have opted to remain silent regarding the issue at hand.

Three years ago Volkswagen Group also faced lawsuit due to Audi engine failure. As shared on Ward & Ward Lawfirm website, a product liability law firm initiated a class-action lawsuit against Volkswagen AG (doing business as Audi of America) in New Jersey District Court on April 30, 2021.

Under the case name Jeni Rieger v. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc., et al, the lawsuit, spearheaded by Berger Montague PC, contends that the automaker distributed specific models equipped with faulty engines spanning the years 2012 to 2017. The lawsuit delineates the Class as individuals in the United States who procured or leased any 2012-2017 Audi vehicle outfitted with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.

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