Tesla is facing accusations that it intentionally rolled out software updates that decreased the battery performance of its Model S and X vehicles, thus harming the cars’ batteries without the owners’ consent. U.S. District Judge Jon Tigar allowed certain class claims to proceed in a lawsuit brought by Tesla owners who alleged that the company knowingly released software updates that intentionally reduced the battery life of their vehicles. In his order, Tigar noted that the plaintiffs adequately demonstrated that Tesla’s software changes immediately damaged the batteries in many cars. However, the judge dismissed the plaintiffs’ unfair competition claims and rejected a request to halt the release of performance updates during the litigation.
While the judge recognized the possibility of compensating owners for past battery harms through monetary damages, he emphasized the need for proof of future harm caused by software updates. Tigar stated that the plaintiffs failed to show how Tesla plans to continue these practices, or if the company bypassed security measures to ensure the updates were downloaded. Some plaintiffs had voluntarily installed the updates, making it challenging for them to claim unauthorized access. Tesla’s attempt to dismiss claims for common law trespass in several states, including Florida, Virginia, Michigan, Washington, and Arizona, was mostly rejected by the judge.
The plaintiffs now have 21 days to file an amended complaint. If they do not, the dismissed claims will be permanently dismissed. Both parties involved in the case have refrained from commenting. Tesla argued in its motion to dismiss that the plaintiffs did not provide any evidence to show that the company circumvented technical barriers to access the software or engaged in misrepresentation or fraud related to the updates. The outcome of this lawsuit will shed light on the extent of Tesla’s responsibility in the alleged intentional reduction of battery power in its vehicles.
Article Summary:
Tesla is facing accusations from owners of Model S and X vehicles who claim that the company intentionally released software updates that decreased the battery performance of their cars without their consent. While U.S. District Judge Jon Tigar allowed certain class claims to proceed in the lawsuit, he dismissed unfair competition claims and rejected a request to halt performance updates during litigation. The judge emphasized the need for proof of future harm and questioned how Tesla plans to continue these practices. The plaintiffs have 21 days to file an amended complaint.
FAQ Section:
1. What are the accusations against Tesla?
Tesla is accused of intentionally releasing software updates that decreased the battery performance of its Model S and X vehicles without obtaining the owners’ consent.
2. What did U.S. District Judge Jon Tigar allow in the lawsuit?
Judge Tigar allowed certain class claims to proceed, indicating that the plaintiffs adequately demonstrated that Tesla’s software changes immediately damaged the batteries in many cars.
3. What claims were dismissed by the judge?
The judge dismissed the plaintiffs’ unfair competition claims and rejected a request to halt performance updates during the litigation.
4. What did Judge Tigar emphasize regarding future harm?
Judge Tigar emphasized the need for the plaintiffs to provide proof of future harm caused by software updates, such as how Tesla plans to continue these practices and if the company bypassed security measures.
5. What is the outcome if the plaintiffs do not file an amended complaint within 21 days?
If the plaintiffs do not file an amended complaint within 21 days, the dismissed claims will be permanently dismissed.
6. What did Tesla argue in its motion to dismiss?
Tesla argued that the plaintiffs did not provide any evidence to show that the company circumvented technical barriers or engaged in misrepresentation or fraud related to the software updates.
7. What will the outcome of this lawsuit determine?
The outcome of this lawsuit will shed light on the extent of Tesla’s responsibility in the alleged intentional reduction of battery power in its vehicles.
Key Terms/Jargon:
– Software updates: Refers to the release of new or modified software that provides improvements, bug fixes, or additional features to a device or system.
– Battery performance: The capability and efficiency of a battery to provide power for a device or vehicle.
– Class claims: Legal claims brought collectively on behalf of a group of individuals who share similar grievances against a defendant.
– Unfair competition claims: Accusations of unfair or deceptive business practices that give a company a competitive advantage over others.
– Trespass: Unauthorized access or entry onto someone else’s property or vehicle.
– Amended complaint: A revised complaint filed by the plaintiffs after the initial complaint in a legal case.
Related Links:
– Tesla official website
– United States Courts
The source of the article is from the blog trebujena.net