Italy Accuses Electric Vehicle Manufacturers of Deceit | Carscoops

      Italian authorities are conducting an investigation into Tesla, BYD, Volkswagen, and Stellantis regarding incomplete specifications for their electric vehicles (EVs).

      These automakers are accused of engaging in unfair commercial practices in Italy, including providing misleading information about their EVs.

      The allegations involve inaccurate claims concerning driving range, battery degradation, and warranty terms.

      While most consumers typically associate misleading automotive specifications with emissions and fuel consumption, the rise of electric vehicles has highlighted concerns about driving range. Four significant automakers are now being scrutinized by Italian regulators for potentially deceptive consumer information regarding their EV specifications on official websites.

      The companies under investigation include BYD, Stellantis, Tesla, and the Volkswagen Group. Notably, Stellantis and the Volkswagen Group market mechanically similar EVs under different brands in Italy, complicating the allegations further.

      As reported, the Italian Competition Authority (AGCM) has charged these companies with unfair business practices. Last Thursday, the AGCM, with assistance from the financial police (Guardia di Finanza), conducted searches at the headquarters of BYD, Stellantis, Tesla, and the Volkswagen Group in Italy.

      The regulator claims that these automakers provided "generic" and sometimes "contradictory" information about the driving ranges of their EVs. Although the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) figures serve as the benchmark for EV range in Europe, the AGCM contends that the companies failed to clarify "which factors influence the stated maximum range and how they impact the actual range."

      Furthermore, it is alleged that the automakers did not provide "clear and complete information" regarding battery capacity degradation over time under normal usage, which is crucial for prospective EV owners. The AGCM also asserts that the automakers did not sufficiently disclose the terms and limitations associated with their standard battery warranties.

      In essence, it appears that significant details regarding the real-world performance of EVs may have been omitted from marketing materials, potentially leading consumers to have an incomplete understanding of what to anticipate.

      According to local media reports, representatives from the Italian divisions of BYD, Stellantis, and the Volkswagen Group have not yet responded to the allegations, and Tesla's local representatives were reportedly unavailable for comment.

      As the investigation unfolds, we will monitor the situation for any developments and potential repercussions for the companies involved.