California DMV Accuses Tesla of Misleading Autopilot Claims
California regulators allege that Tesla falsely advertises its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving features as fully autonomous. The DMV's complaint could result in suspended vehicle licenses and hefty fines for the automaker.
California's Department of Motor Vehicles files a complaint against Tesla, accusing the automaker of falsely advertising its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving features. The state regulators state that Tesla's marketing misleadingly suggests these systems allow vehicles to operate autonomously without human supervision, even though they still require active driver intervention.
The DMV's legal action challenges Tesla's long-standing narrative about its advanced driver assistance software. Despite the "Full Self-Driving" label, the technology currently functions only as a Level 2 system that relies on continuous human monitoring and control to navigate safely.
If the state agency proves these allegations, Tesla faces severe consequences that include the suspension or revocation of its dealer licenses in California. This regulatory crackdown highlights the growing friction between electric vehicle manufacturers and government authorities over the safe and honest deployment of automated driving technologies.