Tesla is no longer using the term “autopilot” to describe the self-driving capabilities of its vehicles in California, avoiding a 30-day sales suspension in the state. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) announced that Tesla had taken corrective action in December after finding that the EV maker’s marketing was violating state law and misleading customers into thinking its cars would drive autonomously.
The DMV complaint relates to written marketing materials for Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) features that Tesla began publishing in May 2021, after which the EV maker added “(supervised)” for the use of “full self-driving capability.” In December, the agency gave Tesla 60 days to stop using the term Autopilot or face a 30-day manufacturing license and dealer license suspension — temporarily barring Tesla from selling vehicles in its largest U.S. market.
“The DMV is committed to safety on all of California’s roads and communities,” said DMV Director Steve Gordon. “The Department is pleased that Tesla took the necessary actions to remain in compliance with the state of California’s consumer protections.”
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