Tesla class action alleges dangerous braking defect

Around 10,000 Australian Tesla owners have joined a class action that alleges Tesla’s claims about certain functions or capabilities on some Model 3 and Model Y vehicles were misleading.

It concerns Model 3 and Model Y Teslas manufactured from 2021 onwards that are equipped with the Tesla Vision autopilot system.

There are three allegations covered in the class action, including ‘phantom braking’, with vehicle owners claiming that the brakes can be suddenly applied for no reason while the vehicle is in autopilot mode.

Concerns over battery range being lower than the advertised maximum range, or the range displayed on the dashboard when battery level is greater than 50 per cent, are also covered in the class action, in addition to the operation of the vehicle in autopilot mode not being fully or ‘close to’ automated.

The class action also alleges that Tesla had known about the defects.

The Australian class action follows a similar lawsuit against Tesla in the USA that also alleges a braking defect.

Tesla does advise Tesla owners to keep their hands on the steering wheel at all times while autopilot mode is engaged.

The Australian class action, which was first brought to the Federal Court in May, is due to return to court later this year and is seeking compensation for Tesla owners. All owners of Tesla vehicles covered in the class action may apply to take part.