The Italian Competition Authority has closed four investigations initiated against Stellantis Europe SpA, Tesla Italy srl, BYD Industria Italia srl, and Volkswagen Group Italia SpA after accepting a set of binding commitments aimed at improving the adequacy and transparency of information provided to consumers on electric vehicles.
The proceedings concerned the manner in which information was presented regarding vehicle range, battery capacity loss, and the scope and limitations of conventional battery warranties. The Authority assessed whether the information made available to consumers was sufficiently clear and comprehensive to enable informed purchasing decisions in the rapidly growing electric vehicle market.
Under the commitments accepted, the companies will revise and reorganise their websites to ensure that key information is presented in a clear, accessible, and consolidated manner. In particular, details on electric vehicle range—going beyond purely theoretical values—along with the factors influencing real-world mileage, battery charge loss, and the terms and limitations of the conventional battery warranty will be brought together in a single dedicated section. This is intended to give consumers immediate and transparent access to the main characteristics of electric vehicles.
The commitments also include the introduction of a vehicle range simulation tool that reflects the principal factors affecting driving range, including different usage patterns. This tool will allow consumers to compare similar electric vehicles on the market and better understand how variables such as driving conditions and usage habits influence actual range and battery degradation over time. In addition, the companies will provide detailed information on battery maintenance, including the battery’s State of Health for warranty purposes, as well as the applicable conditions and limitations.
All measures must be implemented within 120 days. Moreover, Stellantis, BYD, and Volkswagen have committed to enhancing consumer protection by improving battery efficiency for electric vehicles sold, including the provision, within the standard warranty, of a higher minimum battery State of Health threshold for the benefit of consumers.