Volkswagen accused of ruining Mexican crops with weather-altering 'hail cannons'
Volkswagen has been accused of ruining crops planted near one of its factories in Mexico by using technology to alter the weather.
Local groups have accused the German automaker of causing a dry spell with hail cannons that shoot sonic booms into the air to prevent the formation of hail. The devices are used to protect cars parked outside the factory from dents caused by hailstones.
Following the complaints, Volkswagen has promised to reduce its use of the cannons at its Puebla factory.
"Even though there is no evidence that the use of these devices causes a lack of rain, Volkswagen (VLKAF) of Mexico decided to modify its operation in order to maintain a harmonious relationship with its neighbors," a company spokesperson told CNN.
"Volkswagen ... [has stopped] using these devices in their automatic mode, and is only operating them manually, when the meteorological conditions determine the imminent fall of hail," she said.
The automaker said it now plans to install "anti-hail nets" over more than 150 acres to protect its cars. It said it would continue to use the cannons if needed.
Volkswagen builds hundreds of thousands of cars at its factory in Puebla, Mexico.
Emission fraud, altering the weather. Another great German export product of the car industry.
https://money.cnn.com/2018/08/23/new...ght/index.html
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/201...aused-drought/