- Reuters reported Wednesday that Tesla faces a criminal investigation for “self-driving” claims.
- Tesla’s “Autopilot” vehicle feature is marketed as offering “full self-driving capabilities.”
- Sources informed Reuters that last year, the Justice Department started an investigation into that claim.
Tesla’s claim that its electric cars can “self-driving,” is the subject of a federal criminal probe that began last year. Reuters reported Wednesday.
Many automakers equip their vehicles now with driver-assist technology that helps keep the vehicle in its lane, and to prevent frontal collisions. But Tesla goes a step further, claiming that an optional version of its Autopilot technology provides “full self-driving capabilities” — even as it instructs drivers to keep their hands on the wheel at all times.
Reuters reported that prosecutors from the US Department of Justice are investigating the claim. They also cited three anonymous sources who were familiar with the matter. The probe, which could eventually lead to criminal charges against Tesla executives is focused on whether this claim amounts to defrauding customers.
The news agency was told by sources that it is unlikely that any charges will be filed. This is due to Tesla’s Autopilot claims that its vehicles do not operate autonomously.
Insider reached out to Tesla and the Department of Justice for clarification.
Tesla claims that its optional Full Self Driving Capability is still in beta, meaning it is not yet a final product. Elon Musk, Tesla CEO, said that despite the name, they are not saying that. [it’s]Automobil news site: “I am quite willing to have no one behind my wheel,” Electrek reported.
California lawmakers were elected earlier this year. A bill was passedTesla and other automakers would be prohibited from using the term Full Self Driving. Backers argue that the term is misleading, potentially dangerous.
“Are you going to just wait for another Californian to die?” Lena Gonzalez, state senator, told the Los Angeles Times. “People in California believe Full Self Driving is fully automated. It’s not.”
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