Vehicles: consumer notices.
The enactment of SB 1398 will require significant changes in how vehicle manufacturers and dealers communicate information about their vehicles' automation capabilities. By legally requiring a distinct notice that accurately describes these features, the bill aims to protect consumers from misleading marketing practices that may imply that the vehicle can operate as a fully autonomous system. Prior to this bill, there was potential confusion for consumers who might misinterpret the capabilities of partial automation features.
Senate Bill 1398, introduced by Senator Gonzalez, adds Section 24011.5 to the California Vehicle Code, mandating that dealers or manufacturers provide consumer notices for new passenger vehicles equipped with partial driving automation features. The bill seeks to ensure that consumers are adequately informed about the functions and limitations of these features at the time of sale or upgrade. This move is intended to enhance transparency in the automotive market, particularly as vehicles begin to incorporate more sophisticated automation technologies.
The overall sentiment surrounding SB 1398 appears to be positive among consumer advocacy groups, who view the legislation as a necessary step toward consumer protection in the evolving landscape of automotive technology. However, there might be concerns from manufacturers about the implications of compliance and liability, as violating these notice requirements will be classified as an infraction. The bill's proponents argue that it provides essential safeguards for consumers in a new and rapidly developing market segment.
While SB 1398 aims to enhance consumer awareness, some industry stakeholders may express concerns over the practical implications of the new requirements. There is potential contention regarding how comprehensive these notices must be and the specific language used — particularly in relation to marketing practices. Additionally, since the bill creates a new infraction, questions may arise concerning enforcement and the impact on manufacturers and dealers who could face penalties for non-compliance. Despite these concerns, the broader goal remains to protect consumers in a market that is becoming increasingly complex with technological advancements.