Tesla faces fresh scrutiny from US authorities, potentially over EV driving range claims
The US Department of Justice (DOJ) is reportedly investigating Tesla Inc. about “certain matters” related to the claimed electric range of its vehicles, said The Telegraph.
The DOJ’s move comes after proposed class action lawsuits from several Tesla customers who claim the company falsely advertised the estimated driving range of its vehicles.
Additionally, the lawsuit, filed in late July of this year, also alleges that Tesla created a “Diversion Team” for the sole purpose of canceling any agreements customers had made with Tesla Stores surrounding the issue. Forbes.
As a result, Tesla has confirmed that it has “received requests for information, including subpoenas from the DOJ, regarding certain matters relating to personal benefits, related parties, vehicle range and personnel decisions,” as reported by The edge.
While customers have not reported any specific fault with their battery packs, the problem lies in Tesla’s software which reportedly offers a potentially optimistic view of remaining range, which could have very real consequences when it comes to hypermiling to the next wave of Superchargers. .
Compared to many other, more established car manufacturers, who have had to comply WLTP standards, emissions figures and stringent range tests regarding combustion engines, Tesla has historically been accused of chasing impressive numbers, rather than providing conservative figures that prove more useful in the real world.
According to Forbes, the latest lawsuit says Tesla’s practice of overestimating mileage “violated the vehicles’ warranties and amounted to both unfair competition and fraud.” Ouch.
Even more controversy for Musk
This isn’t the first time Tesla has come under fire for possible foul play as ordered compensate buyers in Norway afterwards a software update would have reduced range and slowed charging speeds.
Likewise, South Korean customers also complained about similar exaggerations and Tesla was fined about $2.2 million.
This is a small change for the richest man in the world, but cases like this represent a serious blow to the brand’s reputation.
It’s also something that will come into play when prospective customers have to choose between a Tesla or one of the many emerging EVs from major manufacturers like Audi, Porsche, VW, Nissan, Kia and many more.