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Tesla under criminal investigation over self-driving claims

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) already has been investigating 16 crashes wherein the Autopilot caused the cars to crash into stationary emergency vehicles.

According to a media report, Tesla is under criminal investigation by the Department of Justice in the United States of America over its self-driving car claims.

Reports state that the Justice Department is looking into "whether Tesla misled consumers, investors & regulators by making unsupported claims about its driver-assistance technology's capabilities."

While Tesla has always mentioned that its autopilot technology requires constant monitoring, with drivers ready to take control at all times, the company's CEO, Elon Musk, has been criticised for marketing the features in a way which could confuse the public/potential consumers.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) already has been investigating 16 crashes wherein the Autopilot caused the cars to crash into stationary emergency vehicles, resulting in 15 injuries and 1 fatality. The company is also facing multiple consumer lawsuits over fake advertising, misleading them about the vehicle's capabilities.

However, the investigation by the Justice Department represents a higher degree of scrutiny since Tesla or its executives could be charged criminally. The examination of whether Tesla misled its consumers and made unsupported claims is being done by prosecutors in Washington and San Francisco.

Source: Reuters

 
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