Tesla's "optimistic" range estimates now face federal scrutiny

If you've ever owned a Tesla or even just sat in one, you've probably marveled at the sleek design, the autopilot features, and yes, the lengthy range estimates that promise you miles and miles of uninterrupted electric cruising. But it seems like the federal government is less than impressed with Tesla's strategy of delivering overly optimistic range projections.

Tesla is facing a federal investigation over whether it intentionally exaggerated the potential driving distance of its electric vehicles. The Department of Justice (DOJ) is reportedly looking into claims that Tesla's in-dash range meters have been purposefully tuned to show ranges more optimistic than a kid on Christmas Eve. This comes after a Reuters investigation suggested that Tesla intentionally boosted the displayed range on its cars.

Tesla apparently had an entire "Diversion Team" whose sole mission was to cancel service appointments caused by those pumped range estimates. Apparently customers saw that they are consistently unable to achieve the indicated range and thought there's something wrong with their cars.

The software in Tesla vehicles reportedly shows more accurate range estimates when the battery charge drops below 50%. Plus, the cars have a range buffer that allows for about 15 miles of driving even after the charge meter hits zero. So, it's not like you'll be stranded in the middle of nowhere, but it's a bit like a restaurant advertising a 16-ounce steak and then telling you the last two ounces were left somewhere in the kitchen.

Interestingly, other electric vehicles, like the Hyundai Kona, were found to underestimate their range.

Tesla's range manipulation allegedly began in the company's early days when it only offered the Roadster and Model S. Fast forward to today, and Tesla's range estimates are still among the most generous in the EV market, although third-party testers have found that they don't adequately account for temperature changes.

This investigation adds to a growing list of probes Tesla is facing, including scrutiny over its Autopilot driver assistance product and even an investigation into the company's use of funds on a secret project described as a house for CEO Elon Musk.

Via