Italy probes Tesla, Volkswagen, BYD over misleading EV performance claims
What's the story
Italy's competition authority is now investigating four major automakers: BYD, Stellantis, Tesla, and Volkswagen.
The probe is based on allegations that these companies have deceived consumers regarding the performance of their electric vehicles (EVs).
The investigations are particularly focused on information related to "EV driving range, battery capacity degradation and limitations on standard battery warranties," according to the watchdog's statement.
Legal implications
Potential violations of consumer rights
The authority's statement indicates that these practices may have violated the consumer code.
Under Italian law, companies guilty of breaching consumer rights may be fined between €5,000 and €10 million.
Stellantis has responded to the investigation by saying it is fully cooperating with the authority and has provided all necessary information and documentation.
Meanwhile, BYD and Volkswagen have declined to comment on the investigations. Tesla is yet to respond to media queries.
Website criticism
Authority criticizes automakers' websites for vague information
The competition authority has slammed the automakers' websites for offering "generic and sometimes contradictory information" on electric car driving ranges.
The sites fail to specify which factors could affect the advertised maximum range and to what extent.
The watchdog also alleges that these websites do not provide clear and comprehensive information on battery capacity degradation from normal use of the vehicle, as well as terms or limitations of battery warranty.
Inspection details
Inspections conducted at Italian headquarters of automakers
The competition authority has confirmed that it raided the Italian headquarters of the four automakers on Thursday.
The raids were conducted with the help of the Guardia di Finanza, Italy's financial crimes police force.
This is a standard practice in such cases and is part of the ongoing investigation into the possible violation of consumer rights by these companies.