Tesla Settles Norway case, Pays Legacy Model S Owners Over Charging Slowdown

Tesla has settled a high-profile legal dispute in Norway, agreeing to compensate 115 Model S owners after a 2019 software update reduced charging speeds.

Each owner will receive 50,000 Norwegian kroner, bringing total costs, including legal fees, to more than 20 million kroner, as the case concludes after multiple court rulings.

Court rulings force compensation over reduced charging speeds

The case centers on the Tesla Model S, specifically units produced between 2013 and 2015. Owners argued that a 2019 over-the-air update significantly slowed charging performance, effectively reducing usability.

Tesla defended the update at the time, stating it was intended to improve battery longevity and enhance safety, including mitigating fire risks. However, Norwegian courts sided with owners, determining the change represented a material downgrade, according to Allt Om Elbil.

Four initial cases progressed through the legal system and were upheld all the way to the Supreme Court of Norway in 2025. A broader group of 115 owners later secured a similar ruling in Oslo District Court.

Tesla attempted to appeal, but the case was rejected by the Borgarting Court of Appeal and ultimately dismissed again by the Supreme Court, making the decision final.

Case highlights growing scrutiny of software-driven changes

The ruling underscores increasing legal scrutiny over software updates in connected vehicles, particularly when changes impact performance after purchase.

Lead plaintiff Esben Zimmer criticized Tesla’s handling of the dispute, alleging delays and resistance throughout the legal process. Tesla has not publicly commented on the final outcome.

The case may set a precedent for how automakers manage over-the-air updates, especially as vehicles become more software-defined. It also highlights the balance between safety improvements and maintaining expected performance for customers.

As EVs rely more heavily on software, similar disputes could emerge globally, making transparency and customer communication increasingly critical for automakers.

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