Tesla Faces False Advertising Lawsuit for Alleged Misrepresentation of the Range of Electric Vehicles

According to a report from Engadget, Tesla is currently facing a false advertising lawsuit over allegations that it materially misrepresented the range of its fleet of electric vehicles. As currently filed, the false advertising lawsuit seeks to cover all consumers in California who bought Tesla Model 3, Model S, Model X or Model Y. Other claims are being considered in other states, including Florida. Here, our Miami deceptive trade practices attorney highlights the key things we know about the case.

False Advertising Allegations: Tesla Misrepresented the Range of Electric Vehicles 

Tesla—the world’s largest manufacturer of electric vehicles (EVs)—is facing scrutiny for allegedly materially misrepresenting their range. EV range matters as it determines how far an electric vehicle can travel on a single charge. Adequate range is crucial for user confidence, alleviating “range anxiety”, and ensuring practicality for daily use, long trips, and varied driving conditions. As such, accurate representation of range is essential for informed purchasing decisions.

A group of Tesla owners in California has filed a proposed class action lawsuit under state law seeking to hold the automaker legally liable for false advertising, fraud, warranty violations, and unfair competition. The claim related to several different specific models (Tesla Model 3, Model S, Model X or Model Y.) The controversy stems from a recent report that alleges that Tesla has been  improperly altering EV ranges for about 10 years, displaying inflated figures at full charge.

 The Claim: Consumers Would Not Have Paid Price With Accurate Assessment 

The plaintiffs in the lawsuit against Tesla claims that their vehicles consistently underperformed in terms of the advertised range. Their frustrations deepened when their attempts to lodge complaints seemed to fall on deaf ears. According to the lawsuit, this discrepancy in range performance is not a minor oversight—it profoundly impacted their purchasing decisions. Had they known about the actual range capabilities of their vehicles, they might have chosen not to buy them or would have expected a significant reduction in price. They are seeking compensation for their damages.

 Florida Consumers Can File a False Advertising Claim Under the FDUTPA 

The Tesla false advertising lawsuit has been filed in California. Other claims could potentially follow in other jurisdictions. Notably, Florida state law protects consumers against deceptive advertising. The Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act (FDUTPA) covers a wide array of deceptive business practices, including material misrepresentations in advertising. If a company violates this act, affected consumers can file a claim to seek financial compensation for their “actual damages.”

Speak to Our Florida FDUTPA Attorney for Help With Your False Advertising Case

At Pike & Lustig, LLP, we handle FDUTPA claims. Our law firm represents both plaintiffs and defendants in false advertising claims. Contact our legal team today to set up your confidential initial appointment. From our offices in Miami and West Palm Beach, our team takes on false advertising cases all across Southeast Florida, including in Fort Lauderdale and Jupiter.

Source:

engadget.com/tesla-sued-for-false-advertising-after-allegedly-exaggerating-ev-ranges-151034923.html