Elon Musk as a long history of big promises and delivery that’s slightly more modest.
Even scrutiny of his role in the Trump administration, at a time when Tesla’s share price and sales are plummeting, has revealed that supposed savings in the cuts made by the so-called Department of Government Efficiency are far smaller that the organisation’s claims – at times because they confuse millions with billions.
And while there’s concern that Trump’s desire to protect US tech from foreign regulation may lead conflict with the Australian government, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who loves engaging lawyers, has bigger problems Down Under.
Brisbane law firm JGA Saddler has a filed a class action against Tesla Australia and Tesla US, alleging the EV manufacturer marketed and sold cars hat are defective and don’t live up to the company’s promises around automation and driving range.
The company is facing similar suits in the US.
JGA Saddler director Rebecca Jancauskas said the claim alleged the company had known about a variety of defects, had overstated the vehicles’ abilities for years, and had not taken sufficient action to address issues or compensate owners and others who leased a Tesla.
“Imagine driving down the motorway in your high-tech electronic vehicle (EV) with cruise control, or so-called Autopilot, engaged and it applies the brakes for no apparent reason,” she said.
“This dangerous phenomenon, known as ‘phantom braking’, would terrify you and your passengers and could, if it causes an accident, result in serious injury and/or death.
“Imagine your EV has never reached 75% of its advertised battery range, or the promised self-driving features, that you paid a premium of more than $5000 for, have never been delivered. For many Tesla drivers these issues are their daily reality.”
While Australia has no history of Tesla failures leading to death, it has been an issued scrutinised by US authorities.
Jancauskas argues that Tesla made promises about their vehicles’ safety, performance and features such as their full self-driving, “but it appears some of these promises are falling flat.”
She points to media reports that Tesla created secret team to suppress driving range complaints.
“It is hoped this claim underscores the importance for all EV manufacturers to be truthful in their marketing, deliver on their promises, and ensure their products are safe and reliable,” she said.
The Statement of Claim, filed in the Federal Court of Australia, covers various Tesla models sold or leased from May 2021.
The class action is being funded by Woodsford as a business opportunity by global litigation financier.
Woodsford’s David Haughan said Tesla customers have not got what they paid for.
“They were sold a car based on promises about the vehicles’ self-driving capabilities, battery range, and safety features, and Tesla has not delivered,” he said.
Australians who own or lease a Tesla can register for the class action, if eligible and interested, at teslaaction.com.
Trending
Daily startup news and insights, delivered to your inbox.