- The Italian Competition Authority investigates BYD, Stellantis, Tesla, and Volkswagen for misleading EV range and battery warranty claims.
- The regulator accuses automakers of providing vague, conflicting range data and failing to inform buyers about battery capacity reduction over time.
- Automakers pledge cooperation in the investigation, which aims to ensure transparency and protect consumer trust in the growing electric vehicle market.
The Italian Competition Authority has opened an investigation into BYD, Stellantis, Tesla, and Volkswagen. The inquiry targets the accuracy of these automakers’ information about their electric vehicles’ range and battery warranties.
The regulator claims the companies’ websites offer vague and sometimes conflicting data about the kilometre range of their electric vehicles. It notes a lack of detail regarding factors that affect the claimed range and how these factors influence actual vehicle performance.
The investigation also focuses on potential violations of battery warranty rules. The regulator accuses the automakers of failing to inform consumers about how regular vehicle use leads to a reduction in battery capacity. This omission may mislead buyers about their EVs’ long-term performance.
Officials conducted inspections at the Italian headquarters of all four companies. Stellantis confirmed the inspections and provided the regulators with all necessary information, documents, and answers. The company reaffirmed its focus on customer satisfaction and committed to cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation.
Volkswagen Italy also acknowledged the investigation and pledged to supply all required data to understand the situation clearly.
This inquiry highlights how EV manufacturers communicate critical information to consumers, especially real-world range estimates and battery warranty limitations. Clear and accurate information about these factors is vital in managing consumer expectations and ensuring transparency in the electric vehicle market.
The Italian Competition Authority’s actions come as electric vehicles gain market share. Given their impact on usability, consumers increasingly consider range and battery life essential when buying electric cars. Any confusion or misinformation could lead to dissatisfaction and a loss of trust in these brands.
Stellantis, Volkswagen, BYD, and Tesla all produce a wide range of electric vehicles that attract significant interest across Europe. However, many EV owners express concerns about battery degradation, affecting vehicle longevity and resale value.
This investigation could prompt changes in how electric vehicle manufacturers present information to consumers, promoting greater transparency around range estimates and battery performance. The outcome will depend on the findings, but all four automakers have committed to cooperating with Italian authorities.
As the electric vehicle market expands, consumers need clear, reliable information about range and battery performance to make informed decisions. This probe highlights the need for manufacturers to provide more straightforward and detailed information to prevent misleading buyers and maintain trust in the rapidly growing EV industry.