Italy’s antitrust authority has launched investigations into BYD, Stellantis, Tesla, and Volkswagen over concerns that the automakers may have misled consumers regarding the performance of their electric vehicles (EVs). The probe focuses on potential violations of consumer protection laws, which could lead to substantial fines under Italian regulations.
The investigations are centered on claims about EV driving range, battery capacity degradation, and the limitations of standard battery warranties. According to the antitrust authority, the manufacturers may have failed to provide clear and accurate information on these aspects, potentially breaching Italyâs Consumer Code. In line with standard practice in such cases, officials from the Guardia di Finanza financial police reportedly searched the Italian offices of the four companies before the public announcement of the probe.
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A key issue raised by the authority is how the manufacturers communicate information about their EVs’ real-world range. The websites of the carmakers allegedly provide “generic and sometimes contradictory information” on driving distances, without adequately explaining how various factorsâsuch as weather conditions, driving habits, and terrainâaffect a vehicleâs actual range. While it is widely known that real-world performance differs from the standardized figures obtained in laboratory tests under the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP), regulators argue that consumers may not be sufficiently informed about these discrepancies.
The investigation also highlights concerns about battery capacity degradation, a natural process in EVs that affects performance over time. The authority claims that automakers fail to offer clear and complete details on battery lifespan, including the impact of charging habits on battery longevity. Factors such as frequent fast charging, prolonged high charge levels, and variations in temperature can all accelerate battery wear, yet consumers may not be receiving adequate guidance on these risks. Additionally, regulators are examining whether the terms and conditions of EV battery warranties are being presented transparently.
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When asked for comment, BYD and Volkswagen declined to address the allegations or the reported searches of their offices. Tesla Italy was unavailable for comment. Stellantis, which owns Italian brands such as Fiat, Alfa Romeo, and Lancia, confirmed its cooperation with authorities. “Stellantis… is convinced that it has provided adequate, precise, and exhaustive answers to the questions posed by the officials,” the company said in a statement to Reuters.
As Italyâs investigation unfolds, the findings could have broader implications for how EV manufacturers communicate technical details to consumers, potentially prompting regulatory changes or enforcement actions within the European automotive industry.