: South Korean antitrust probes Tesla over exaggerated vehicle range claims #IndiaNEWS #Automobile It is reported today that the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC), (South Korea’s antitrust regulator),

South Korean antitrust probes Tesla over exaggerated vehicle range claims #IndiaNEWS #Automobile
It is reported today that the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC), (South Korea’s antitrust regulator), has initiated an investigation against the American electric vehicles giant, Tesla for allegedly making exaggerated claims regarding the range of its vehicles.

The probe was first reported by the Yonhap News Agency in Seoul on Monday evening. According to the reports, the Fair Trade Commission examiner handed Tesla a review report that was identical to the prosecutions indictment.

For allegedly breaking South Koreas Fair Labeling and Advertising Act, the letter highlighted potential punishments, including hefty fines against the corporation.

According to a KFTC official, who confirmed the investigation, said: We plan to hold a meeting to decide the level of sanctions against the automaker.

The range estimations for Teslas vehicles appear to be a crucial aspect of the KFTCs complaint against the business. According to Teslas website, the Model 3 sedan can travel 528 kilometers (328 miles) on a single charge.

This number may not be accurate, according to the KFTC, especially if the vehicle is driven in temperatures below freezing.

Its worth noting that range degradation during cold-weather driving isnt exclusive to Tesla. Most electric vehicles, according to analysts, lose some driving range in cold weather.

The same is true for internal combustion engines, as gas-powered vehicles use more fuel when the temperature drops.

A Quebec-based consultant, Yves Racette, reacting to the gas-powered vehicles consuming more fuel, said: “Gas cars lose range just like electric cars; you’re consuming more fuel in winter than in summer.

Aside from possible fines related to Teslas car range estimations, the Korea Fair Trade Commission is considering fining the business for allegedly refusing to refund a 100,000 won () order fee that buyers are expected to pay when placing an order for a vehicle. Even if a buyer cancels their order, the cost is not refunded, according to the KFTC.

Teslas order fee practices, according to the KFTC, infringe on customers freedom to cancel their subscriptions. The electric vehicle manufacturer has received a review report on the matter.

However, the American electric vehicles giant is yet to issue any official statement regarding the KFTC’s recent investigation.