Reuters has reported today that Volkswagen will be headed to court, as the US Justice Department is suing the German automaker for violating environmental regulations.  With a theoretical maximum penalty of an astounding $90 Billion ($37,500 per vehicle), it's quite clear that the US Government is taking the matter very seriously, although more often than not these types of cases are settled out of court for much less than the maximum figure.

This announcement comes as Volkswagen is just hours from unveiling a new all-electric concept at CES, and days away from the opening day of the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, making the timing of this suit quite interesting to say the least.  As of now, Volkswagen is understandably staying tight-lipped on the topic.  We'll bring you any official statements as we receive them.

Check out the full article over on Reuters, here .