The four separate probes are targeted at BYD Industria Italia, Stellantis Europe, Tesla Italy and Volkswagen Group Italia – all Italian or European subsidiaries of the multinational automakers.

The investigations relate to information provided to consumers on driving range, battery degradation and limitations on battery warranties, all “potentially in breach” of Italy’s consumer protection laws,” wrote the Italian Competition Authority in a statement.

“The companies’ websites appear to have displayed generic – and at times contradictory – information regarding the driving range of their marketed EVs, without clarifying which factors impact the advertised maximum range and the extent to which they affect the actual range,” it said.

The websites also fail to give “clear and complete information” on how the capacity of their EV batteries can degrade from normal vehicle use and on the limitations of the warranties offered.

The watchdog said it had carried out an inspection at all four companies yesterday, together with Italy’s financial police.

The lifespan of EV batteries are dependent on multiple factors.

Degradation, which reduces energy capacity, can occur due to extreme cold weather and inconsistent charging.