California DMV Accuses Tesla of Deceptive Autopilot and FSD Marketing
The California DMV files formal complaints against Tesla, claiming the names "Autopilot" and "Full Self-Driving" falsely imply the cars drive themselves. Tesla faces potential fines, mandated advertising changes, or even the suspension of its manufacturing licenses in the state.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles accuses Tesla of engaging in deceptive practices regarding the marketing of its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving driver assistance systems. In recent filings with a state administrative agency, the DMV argues that these specific brand names mislead consumers into believing the vehicles operate as fully autonomous machines.
Tesla faces severe consequences if the DMV prevails in this case, ranging from required changes to its advertising and driver education to the temporary revocation of its manufacturer and dealer licenses in California. The state agency clarifies that this specific action focuses solely on Tesla's marketing language, while a separate safety review examines the actual technological capabilities of the vehicles.
Tesla currently has fifteen days to formally respond to these accusations before the administrative court. The company includes Autopilot as a standard feature in all newly manufactured cars and sells the premium Full Self-Driving option as a costly upgrade to its customers.