What should you do if your car, SUV's brand shuts down

Customers can explore legal remedies if there are unresolved issues with, or damages to, their vehicle.

Published On Dec 09, 2023 09:00:00 AM

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General Motors' Chevrolet brand exited India in 2017.

Ford stopped selling its offerings in India in 2021.

Nissan pulled the plug on the Datsun brand in 2022.

Is it feasible to initiate a class suit for damages if a car company shuts operations abruptly in India, like Ford and Datsun?

Mahesh, via email

Autocar India says: Speaking of class-action suits in India, the legal framework for initiating a lawsuit is governed by the Companies Act, 2013. However, class-action lawsuits are not as common here as in countries like the United States. If a car company were to cease its operations abruptly – like Ford and Datsun – whilst leaving customers with unresolved issues or damages, affected individuals may explore legal remedies.

To pursue a class suit, certain conditions generally need to be met: a group of people having a common interest, a similar cause of action and the certification of the class by the court. It is important to consult with a legal professional experienced in Indian law to determine the specific requirements and feasibility of initiating a class action lawsuit in such a situation.

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