(SASCHA STEINBACH/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock/Sascha Steinbach/Epa-Efe/Rex/Shutterstock)Volkswagen is curbing the use of hail cannons outside its factory in Puebla, Mexico, after the automaker was accused by local farmers of causing a drought in the region, leading to heavy losses of crops. The automaker used the cannons to protect Volkswagen vehicles from hailstone damage. “Volkswagen Mexico is committed to maintaining good relationships and open dialogue with our neighboring communities,” the company told The Washington Post in a statement Friday. The hail cannons are “affecting the Earth’s cycles,” said Gerardo Perez, a leader of the farmers, AFP reported. To cover the crop losses, the farmers are demanding that Volkswagen pay nearly $4 million in compensation, according to the report.

Source: Washington Post August 24, 2018 16:07 UTC