Hino Motors to pay $1.6B in penalties for emissions fraud

Hino Motors to pay $1.6B in penalties for emissions fraud

March 27, 2025
From 2010 to 2019, Hino engineers falsified emissions data, improperly conducted tests, and concealed software that could impact emission control systems.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) have announced that Hino Motors, Ltd., a Toyota subsidiary, has pled guilty to criminal charges related to a years-long scheme to defraud the U.S. government and consumers by submitting false engine certification applications. The company was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Mark A. Goldsmith to pay a $521.76 million fine, serve a five-year probation during which it cannot import diesel engines into the U.S., and implement a comprehensive compliance and ethics program. Additionally, Hino Motors faces a $1.087 billion forfeiture.

From 2010 to 2019, Hino engineers falsified emissions data, improperly conducted tests, and concealed software that could impact emission control systems, violating the Clean Air Act. The fraudulent actions led to the importation and sale of over 105,000 non-compliant engines, primarily installed in heavy-duty trucks. 

What people are saying

In a recent quote, Acting Assistant Administrator Jeffrey Hall for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance said, “Hino falsely certified compliance with the Clean Air Act so that it could profit off Americans by sending illegal, polluting engines into the United States. Today’s plea and sentencing demonstrates that companies who intentionally evade our nation’s environmental laws, including by fabricating data to feign compliance with those laws, deserve punishment and will be held criminally accountable.”

Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) added, “Hino unlawfully imported over 105,000 engines that did not comply with U.S. emissions standards and lied about what it was doing. Hino’s criminal conduct gave it an unfair business advantage over other law-abiding companies, including American companies, and generated over $1 billion in gross proceeds. We are committed to upholding the rule of law by prosecuting fraud and enforcing our Clean Air Act emissions standards.”

EPA in the news

Kugler Oil fined $119K for chemical accident prevention violations at Nebraska facility
The plant failed to comply with regulations intended to protect workers and the surrounding community from accidental releases of the toxic substance.

Sugar processor violates Clean Water Act by discharging raw sugar into the Carquinez Strait 
The discharge occurred when the plant received raw cane sugar from ships that dock at the facility.

Cardboard manufacturer to correct Clean Air Act violations or face $120K in daily fines
The EPA investigation began after nearby residents complained about black smoke coming from the facility.

About the Author

Alexis Gajewski | Senior Content Strategist

Alexis Gajewski has over 15 years of experience in the maintenance, reliability, operations, and manufacturing space. She joined Plant Services in 2008 and works to bring readers the news, insight, and information they need to make the right decisions for their plants. Alexis also authors “The Lighter Side of Manufacturing,” a blog that highlights the fun and innovative advances in the industrial sector. 

Sponsored Recommendations

A Paradigm Shift in Pump Selection

Jan. 22, 2025
Discover how INNOMAG® is transforming pump selection with innovative design and unparalleled performance. Learn how this breakthrough solution simplifies operations, enhances ...

The Need for Speed: The Most Advanced Sealless Pump is Also the Fastest

Jan. 14, 2025
Struggling with a troublesome pump? Get a reliable solution in just five days with the fastest, most advanced sealless pump on the market.

Say Goodbye to Pumping’s Weakest Links

Jan. 14, 2025
Shaft seals and ball bearings cause nearly 80% of pump failures—but not with INNOMAG®. With no seals, no bearings, and a thrust-balanced design, these pumps deliver unmatched ...

Ready to Reduce the Cost of Energy with a Highly Efficient, More Forgiving Pump?

Jan. 14, 2025
INNOMAG® pumps save energy and maintain peak efficiency over time—no wear and tear. Discover how they can lower your operating costs and increase reliability.