BRUSSELS, (Reuters) – The European Commission called Thursday on Italy to impose penalties for the misuse of prohibited devices to alter vehicle emissions. This follows an intensification in the infringement process against Rome that began in May 2017.

Four years ago, the European Union Executive launched legal proceedings against Italy because it failed to investigate allegations of cheating in emissions testing by Fiat Chrysler.

Stellantis and Italy’s Transport ministry could not be reached immediately for comment.

According to the Commission, it asked Italy for explanations about its inability to fulfill its obligations to enforce emissions rules that were based on European regulations.

Conforming to the regulation member states must set and implement penalties to punish the misuse of so-called defeat device banned substances that hinder the efficiency of emission control system, leading to higher vehicle emissions.

According to the Commission, Italy had issued a compulsory recall for affected cars but failed to impose penalties.

Italy has now been given two months to respond and to take the appropriate measures. Otherwise, the Commission could decide to refer the matter to the Court of Justice of the European Union.