Germany fines VW suppliers for collusion

Germany’s antitrust authority has fined three suppliers of Volkswagen a total of 9.6 million euros ($11 million) for allegedly colluding on how to pass on increasing raw material prices to the automaker. The companies make aluminum heat shields used to insulate other parts of the vehicle against heat generated in the engine and exhaust. The cartel office accuses them of colluding in 2011 by exchanging sensitive information to strengthen their negotiating position against Volkswagen. Settlements were reached with all three companies.