Maruti Suzuki fined Rs 1 Lakh for misleading mileage claims
Maruti Suzuki fined Rs 1 Lakh for misleading mileage claims
The National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) orders compensation for deceptive fuel efficiency advertising.
Maruti Suzuki India Limited, a prominent automobile manufacturer, has been directed by the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) to pay Rs 1 lakh in compensation to a customer over misleading claims about the fuel efficiency of its Zen car. The ruling emphasized that the company engaged in unfair trade practices through deceptive advertising.
The complaint was filed by Rajiv Sharma, who purchased the car in 2004 based on advertisements promising a fuel economy of 16-18 kilometers per liter. However, post-purchase, Sharma discovered that the actual mileage fell significantly short, averaging only 10.2 kilometers per liter.
Feeling deceived, Sharma sought resolution through the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum, initially requesting a full refund of the car’s purchase price, including additional costs. The District Forum partially granted his request, awarding him Rs 1 lakh in compensation.
Unsatisfied with this decision, Maruti Suzuki appealed to the State Commission, which upheld the District Forum’s order. The case then reached the NCDRC, where the final decision was made by a bench led by Dr Inder Jit Singh.
NCDRC Verdict :
The NCDRC, after careful consideration, concurred that Maruti Suzuki’s advertisement on fuel efficiency was misleading and constituted unfair trade practices. The automobile manufacturer was thereby directed to pay Rs 1 lakh in compensation to Sharma.
It’s noteworthy that DD Motors, the dealership involved, did not appear in court despite summonses.
The case proceeded against them ex parte, leading to the decision without their presence.
The ruling sets a precedent emphasizing the accountability of car manufacturers for accurate and transparent advertising. Consumer rights were upheld, and Maruti Suzuki was held responsible for the discrepancy between advertised and actual fuel efficiency. The compensation serves as a penalty for engaging in deceptive practices impacting the trust of consumers.
