Tesla Avoids California License Suspension After Revising “Autopilot” Marketing

Feb 17 (GeokHub) — Tesla has avoided a potential 30-day suspension of its dealer and manufacturer licenses in California after revising how it markets its driver-assistance technology, according to state regulators.

The decision by the California Department of Motor Vehicles follows the company’s move to stop using the term “Autopilot” in vehicle advertising within the state.

Regulatory Dispute Over Marketing Language

California regulators first raised concerns in 2022, alleging that Tesla’s use of terms such as “Autopilot” and “Full Self-Driving” could mislead consumers about the capabilities of its advanced driver-assistance systems.

While the DMV initially scrutinized both terms, it narrowed its focus late last year to the use of “Autopilot” after Tesla adjusted its messaging around “Full Self-Driving” (FSD) to clarify that active driver supervision is required.

The agency had previously delayed enforcement action that could have temporarily halted Tesla’s vehicle sales in California — the company’s largest U.S. market — giving the automaker time to address the concerns.

With the updated marketing language in place, regulators confirmed that Tesla will not face the proposed suspension.