Hyundai Facing Class Action over Fuel Economy Figures

Hyundai Motor America is facing a putative class action lawsuit for consumer fraud violations after the company acknowledged it accidentally exaggerated mileage estimates regarding the fuel economy of certain vehicles.

Law360 (subscription required) reports that plaintiff Joel L. Lipman filed a suit in Illinois state court contending that the company was intentionally deceptive in overstating the fuel efficiency of its vehicles at 40 miles a gallon.

Lipman sued the automaker and the authorized Illinois dealership that sold him the 2012 Hyundai Elantra stating he would not have opted for the vehicle if the defendants had been truthful about its fuel economy. The complaint claims the failure of the car to deliver the promised mileage caused Lipman and other customers to spend additional amounts on fuel.

Hyundai and its Kia subsidiary previously indicated they would offer a complete reimbursement program for current and former vehicle owners based on miles driven to cover the extra costs that were incurred due to the fuel economy snafu, in addition to 15 percent of the reimbursement amount, reports Law360.

The mileage errors at the two companies came to light after a review by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

If you or someone you know has been harmed by consumer fraud, contact Sokolove Law for a free legal consultation and to find out if a consumer fraud lawyer may be able to help you.

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