An Australian judge may order Tesla to grant a court-appointed independent expert access to its internal engineering platforms. This proposal stems from a class-action lawsuit representing approximately 10,000 Tesla owners. The suit alleges Tesla overstated the self-driving capabilities and battery range of its Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. It also claims the cars suffer from a "phantom braking" defect.
Federal Court judge Tom Thawley's suggestion aims to resolve a protracted discovery dispute. Plaintiffs' lawyers complain Tesla's provided documents lack crucial technical information. Tesla contends its engineers use live, continuously updated software platforms that lack traditional records.
Direct expert access to these systems could bypass the document-based discovery issue. Tesla is expected to resist this move to protect its intellectual property. The judge indicated he would consider ordering access despite objections. This decision could set a significant precedent for future technology-related lawsuits.