Senators Call for FTC Investigation of Tesla's 'Full Self-Driving' Claims

Senators Request FTC Investigation into Tesla's Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Claims

Edward Markey and Richard Blumenthal, both Democratic senators, have formally requested that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) examine statements made by Tesla concerning the autonomous functionalities of its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving systems.

The senators voiced significant apprehension regarding potential misdirection of customers, suggesting Tesla may be leading them to believe their vehicles possess complete self-driving capabilities.

Concerns Over Misleading Marketing

“Tesla’s marketing efforts have consistently exaggerated the abilities of its vehicles,” the senators stated. “These assertions increasingly represent a danger to drivers and other road users.”

They implored the FTC to initiate an investigation into potentially deceptive and unfair practices within Tesla’s advertising and marketing of its driving automation systems. They also requested appropriate enforcement measures to guarantee the safety of all individuals on the roadways.

YouTube Video Highlighted as Evidence

The senators’ letter, addressed to the newly appointed FTC Chair Lina Khan, referenced a 2019 YouTube video published by Tesla.

This video, titled “Full Self-Driving,” depicts a Tesla operating autonomously and has garnered over 18 million views.

Risk of Injury or Death

The senators emphasized the potential consequences of Tesla’s claims. “Their assertions place Tesla drivers – and the entire travelling public – at risk of severe injury or even fatality,” they wrote.

Multiple Investigations Underway

This request for an FTC investigation arrives shortly after the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced a preliminary investigation into incidents involving Teslas colliding with stationary emergency vehicles.

FTC Chair and Scope of Investigation

Lina Khan is the youngest individual to ever lead the FTC. She is recognized as a highly progressive appointment, particularly due to her research on antitrust legislation.

However, a potential FTC investigation into Tesla would likely focus on consumer protection rather than antitrust concerns. The FTC possesses the authority to investigate false or misleading claims made by companies regarding their products.

Previous Calls for Investigation

This is not the first instance of calls for an FTC investigation into Tesla’s claims. In 2018, the Center for Auto Safety and Consumer Watchdog, both advocacy groups, sent a similar letter to the commission regarding the marketing of Autopilot features.

Furthermore, the NHTSA urged the FTC in the following year to investigate whether statements made by Tesla CEO Elon Musk concerning the Model 3’s safety “constitute[d] unfair or deceptive acts or practices.”

Cost of "Full Self-Driving" and Beta Testing

Tesla currently offers a “Full Self-Driving” option for $10,000, either as a one-time purchase or through a subscription service.

The company is presently evaluating beta version 9 of FSD with a limited number of drivers. The senators also criticized the beta version, noting that drivers have shared videos online demonstrating unexpected maneuvers requiring human intervention to avert accidents.

They concluded that Elon Musk’s limited cautions communicated via social media do not excuse misleading drivers or jeopardizing the safety of others.