19:26 22-04-2026

Tesla loses Norway case, compensates Model S owners for update

Tesla's Supreme Court appeal in Norway rejected, requiring compensation to Model S owners for software update that reduced range and charging speed.

A seven-year legal battle between Tesla and owners of the Model S in Norway has finally concluded. The country's Supreme Court rejected the company's appeal, upholding the decision that requires compensation payments.

The case involved 115 owners of 2013-2015 Model S electric vehicles equipped with the 85 kWh battery. Each will receive 50,000 Norwegian kroner, approximately €4,250, bringing the total payout to around €485,000 before interest.

The dispute stemmed from a 2019 software update. Tesla claimed it would enhance safety and extend battery life, but owners reported reduced range and slower charging at Supercharger stations.

The court found that the update degraded vehicle performance without compensating customers. This ruling follows similar outcomes in four pilot cases decided earlier in 2025.

In practice, this means Tesla's total costs, including legal fees, exceed €1.7 million. With roughly 10,000 such vehicles sold in Norway, potential new claims could significantly increase the financial impact.