I don't think the situation described by rz2k is a problem of regulating. The problem he points out is not that Germany didn't sufficiently punish Volkswagen --

I don't think the situation described by rz2k is a problem of regulating. The problem he points out is not that Germany didn't sufficiently punish Volkswagen -- though it might not have -- but that the hurt German consumers were not made whole. In terms of being made whole for a substantial tort (on the order of $10k) I don't think standard american tort litigation with joinder is perfect, but I think it is a better base to build upon than rule 23 litigation. With injuries of that size I think it is practical and desirable for cases to be client driven rather than hoping a judge reviewing a settlement will adequately protect the interest of the class as against those of class counsel.