In a sensational court case, the Traunstein Regional Court has confirmed the existence of phantom braking in Tesla-vehicles. During test drives with a car, an independent expert Tesla Model 3 unexpected and dangerous braking maneuvers. This verdict could have far-reaching consequences for Tesla and the debate on the safety of assistance systems.
Phantom braking proven under real conditions
The case began with a complaint from a Tesla-customer who demanded the replacement of his vehicle due to problems with the assistance system. The court ordered an expert opinion to verify the alleged defects. In August 2024, the expert completed a 600-kilometre test drive on the A3 and A9 freeways in Bavaria. He documented five situations in which the autopilot "behaved implausibly".
One incident on a three-lane highway without a speed limit was particularly worrying. Here, the Model 3 suddenly slowed down from 140 km/h to 94 km/h without any technical necessity. According to the expert opinion, this abrupt braking maneuver led to "considerable hazardous situations" in the traffic behind. The test was then aborted for safety reasons.
Court-approved expert opinion Tesla in question
The expert came to the conclusion that the observed braking maneuvers met the definition of phantom braking as described in the court's evidentiary ruling. Christoph Lindner, the plaintiff's lawyer, emphasized the significance of the expert opinion: "For the first time, an independent, court-appointed expert has confirmed the occurrence of phantom braking."
Reactions and consequences
Tesla has not yet commented on the results of the expert opinion. In the past, the company has denied the existence of phantom brakes and referred to customer operating errors. However, this new development could increase the pressure on Tesla to seriously address the problems with the assistance systems.
Phantom braking with Tesla are not a new phenomenon. Drivers have been reporting unexpected braking maneuvers for years, which are not only annoying but can also be dangerous. Such incidents have also been documented several times in tests by specialist media such as Golem.de.
What does this mean for Tesla-drivers?
For current and potential Tesla-owners, the question arises as to the reliability of the assistance systems. It is advisable to remain attentive at all times and keep your hands on the steering wheel, even when the autopilot is activated. In addition, further legal action could be taken against Tesla follow if similar cases become more frequent.
Conclusion
The Traunstein District Court's expert opinion brings new insights into the discussion about the safety of Tesla's assistance systems. It remains to be seen how Tesla will react to these developments and what measures will be taken to ensure the safety of drivers.
Keywords: Tesla, Phantom braking, court confirms, expert opinion, Traunstein District Court, Model 3, autopilot, assistance systems, safety risk, Tesla-lawsuit, Christoph Lindner, Tesla News, Shop4Tesla, electromobility, unexpected braking, driver assistance systems, traffic hazard
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