Truck maker AB Volvo penalized $130 million by NHTSA over delayed recalls

WASHINGTON — A U.S. auto safety agency said Monday it was imposing a $130 million civil penalty on AB Volvo following an investigation that found the manufacturer of heavy-duty trucks and buses failed to recall vehicles in a timely fashion.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said AB Volvo agreed to a three-year consent order that includes one of the largest-ever penalties for violations under the recall law. AB Volvo’s North American unit agreed to oversight by an independent third-party auditor and will meet regularly with NHTSA to ensure that it addresses any potential safety issues, the agency said.

Volvo Group is a separate entity from Volvo Cars.