Italy’s competition authority announced on February 21 that it has initiated an investigation into electric vehicle manufacturers BYD, Stellantis, Tesla, and Volkswagen.
The Italian Competition Authority (AGCM) is examining these companies for allegedly providing misleading information to consumers regarding the performance of their electric vehicles.
The investigation is centered on potential unfair commercial practices concerning the accuracy of information related to EV driving ranges, battery capacity degradation, and the limitations associated with standard battery warranties, as stated by the authority.
According to Italian consumer protection laws, violations may incur fines ranging from 5,000 euros ($5,230) to 10 million euros.
What is the focus of the investigation?
The Italian competition authority indicated that the automakers’ websites contain “generic and sometimes contradictory information” about EV driving ranges.
The information often does not adequately address how factors such as cold weather, the use of air conditioning, and different road types can affect the actual driving range.
Furthermore, the regulator claimed that the companies failed to provide clear information to consumers regarding the impact of regular use on battery capacity and did not offer comprehensive details about battery warranty terms and limitations.
On February 20, the authority carried out inspections at the Italian offices of the four automakers, with assistance from the Guardia di Finanza, Italy’s financial crimes police.
The inquiries are occurring during a period of significant growth in the electric vehicle sector, as consumers increasingly embrace EVs in alignment with the global initiative for sustainable transportation.
How have electric vehicle manufacturers responded?
Stellantis has stated that it is fully cooperating with the investigation and has supplied the necessary information and documentation.
“Stellantis prioritizes the needs and satisfaction of its customers in all its operations and is confident that the ongoing investigation will validate this,” the company remarked.
In contrast, BYD and Volkswagen have refrained from commenting on the matter. Tesla, led by Elon Musk, did not provide an immediate response to a request for comment, according to Reuters.
