Tesla prevails in first Autopilot wrongful-death suit
A jury has found Tesla not at fault in a lawsuit over a 2019 wrongful death which alleged that Autopilot caused a crash, killing one passenger and seriously injuring two.
In question was the death of 37-year-old Micah Lee, who was driving a Model 3 in 2019 in Menifee, CA (in the Inland Empire to the east of Los Angeles), and hit a palm tree at approximately 65 miles per hour, causing his death and the injury of two passengers, including an 8-year-old boy. The lawsuit was brought by the passengers.
The lawsuit alleged that Tesla knowingly marketed unsafe experimental software to the public, and that safety defects within the system led to the crash (in particular, a specific steering issue that was known by Tesla). Tesla responded that the driver had consumed alcohol (the driverâs blood alcohol level was at .05%, below Californiaâs .08% legal limit) and that the driver is still responsible for driving when Autopilot is turned on.
A survivor in the vehicle at the time of the accident claimed that Autopilot was turned on at the time of the crash.
Tesla disputed this, saying it was unclear whether Autopilot was turned on â a difference from its typical modus operandi, which involves pulling vehicle logs and stating definitively whether and when Autopilot was on or off. Though these claims have sometimes been lodged when Autopilot was disengaged moments before a crash, when avoidance was no longer possible for the driver.
After four days of deliberations, the jury decided in Teslaâs favor, with a 9-3 decision that Tesla was not culpable.
While Tesla has won an autopilot injury lawsuit before, in April of this year, this is the first resolved lawsuit that has involved a death. That last lawsuit used the same reasoning â that drivers are still responsible for what happens behind the wheel while Autopilot or Full Self-Driving are engaged (despite the name of the latter system suggesting otherwise). Full Self-Driving was not publicly available at the time of Leeâs crash, though he had purchased the system for $6,000 expecting it to be available in the future.
Both of Teslaâs autonomous systems are âlevel 2â on the SAEâs driving automation scale, like most other new autonomous driving systems on the market these days. Although Autopilot is intended for highway use, Teslaâs FSD system can be activated in more situations than most cars. But there is no point at which the car assumed responsibility for driving â that responsibility always lies with the driver.
Since the trial began last month, Tesla CEO Elon Musk made a notable comment during his disastrous presence on Teslaâs Q3 conference call. He was asked whether and when Tesla would accept legal liability for autonomous drive systems, as Mercedes has just started doing with its Level 3 DRIVE PILOT system, the first of its kind in the US (read about our test drive of it in LA). Musk responded saying:
Well, thereâs a lot of people that assume we have legal liability judging by the lawsuits. Weâre certainly not being let that off the hook on that front, whether weâd like to or wouldnât like to.
Elon Musk, CEO, Tesla
Later in the answer, Musk called Teslaâs AI systems âbaby AGI.â AGI is an acronym for âartificial general intelligence,â which is a theorized technology for when computers become good enough at all tasks to be able to replace a human in basically any situation, not just in specialized situations. In short, itâs not what Tesla has and has nothing to do with the question.
Tesla is indeed currently facing several lawsuits over injuries and deaths that have happened in its vehicles, many alleging that Autopilot or FSD are responsible. In one, Tesla tried to argue in court that Muskâs recorded statements on self-driving âmight have been deep fakes.â
We also learned recently, at the release of Muskâs biography, that he wanted to use Teslaâs in-car camera to spy on drivers and win autopilot lawsuits. Though that was apparently not necessary in this case.
Electrekâs Take
Questions like the one asked in this trial are interesting and difficult to answer, because they combine the concepts of legal liability, versus marketing materials, versus public perception.
Tesla is quite clear in official communications, like in operating manuals, in the carâs software itself, and so on, that drivers are still responsible for the vehicle when using Autopilot. Drivers accept agreements as such when first turning on the system.
Or at least, I think they do, since the first time I accepted it was so long ago. And that is the rub. People are also used to accepting long agreements whenever they turn on any system or use any piece of technology, and nobody reads those. Sometimes, these terms even include legally unenforceable provisions, depending on the venue in question.
And then, in terms of public perception, marketing, and in how Tesla has deliberately named the system, there is a view that Teslaâs cars really can drive themselves. Hereâs Tesla explicitly saying âthe car is driving itselfâ in 2016.
We here at Electrek, and our readership, know the difference between all of these concepts. We know that âFull Self-Drivingâ was (supposedly) named that way so that people can buy it ahead of time and eventually get access to the system when it finally reaches full self-driving capability (which should happen, uh, ânext yearâ⊠in any given year). We know that âAutopilotâ is meant to be a reference to how it works in airplanes, where a pilot is still required in the seat to take care of tasks other than cruising steadily. We know that Tesla only has a level 2 system, and that drivers still accept legal responsibility.
But when the general public gets a hold of technology, they tend to do things that you didnât expect. Thatâs why caution is generally favorable when releasing experimental things to the public (and, early on, Tesla used to do this â giving early access to new Autopilot/FSD features to trusted beta testers, before wide release).
Despite being told before activating the software, and reminded often while the software is on, that the driver must keep their hands on the wheel, we all know that drivers donât do that. That drivers pay less attention when the system is activated than when it isnât. Studies have shown this, as well.
And so, while the jury found (probably correctly) that Tesla is not liable here, and while this is perhaps a good reminder to all Tesla drivers to keep paying attention to the road while you have Autopilot/FSD on, you are still driving, so act like it, we still think there is room for discussion about Tesla doing a better job of ensuring attention (for example, it just rolled out a driver attention monitoring feature using the cabin camera, six years after it started including those cameras in the Model 3).
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In a bid to get it above the $1.00/share NASDAQ-required minimum, fledgling EV brand Polestar ($PSNY) is rumored to be considering a 1:30 reverse stock split that could see the per-share price rocket up to nearly $16.
Geely-owned Volvo spinoff Polestar is working as hard as Tesla to prove that stock prices have little or nothing to do with traditional business fundamentals in 2025.
Thatâs because Polestar posted a 36.5% increase in retail sales and a heady 48.8% increase in revenue (to $2.17 billion) over the year before, Polestarâs share price has plummeted more than 35% in a matter of a few weeks â culminating in an unwelcome nastygram from NASDAQ threatening to delist the companyâs shares from the NASDAQ if they didnât climb back up above $1.
It looks bad
To goose the share price, CarScoops is reporting that Polestar aims to move forward with the reverse stock split before the end of 2025. The expected 1:30 reverse split would boost the PSNY price to an estimated $15.90 per share at current prices, keeping the brand well out of risk of a delisting.
In a reverse stock split, each share of the company is converted into a fraction of a share â so, if a company announces a one for ten reverse stock split (1:10), every ten shares that you own will be converted into a single share. In a 1:30 reverse split like the one rumored here, every thirty shares in Polestar would become a single share.
The reverse split increases share price, but itâs not without risk:
A company may declare a reverse stock split in an effort to increase the trading price of its shares â for example, when it believes the trading price is too low to attract investors to purchase shares, or in an attempt to regain compliance with minimum bid price requirements of an exchange on which its shares trade ⊠investors may lose money as a result of fluctuations in trading prices following reverse stock splits.
Thatâs especially relevant because, despite the increased sales and revenue, the company is also posting increased losses. Through September, the brand posted a $1.56 billion net loss compared to an $867 million loss in the first nine months of 2024. The company is also getting hit hard by Trump-imposed tariffs in the US and increased downward pressure on pricing coming from aggressive post-tax credit discounts from rival brands like BMW and Kia.
If the split does happen, hereâs hoping Polestar can make the most of their borrowed time and they donât end up like Lordstown Motors or Faraday Future â two brands that have pulled similar reverse stock splits with dubious results.
Electrekâs Take
Product-wise, at least, Polestarâs future appears to be bright. The new 3 crossover is a viable competitor to the industry-leading Tesla Model Y, and the upcoming Polestar 4 and 5 models seem like winners, too. To drive that point home, Polestar is promoting up to $18,000 in lease incentives to lure Tesla buyers into their showrooms.
You can find out more about Polestarâs killer EV deals on the full range of Polestar models, from the 2 to the 4, below, then let us know what you think of the three-pointed starâs latest discount dash in the comments section at the bottom of the page.
SOURCE: CarScoops; images via Polestar.
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Your personalized solar quotes are easy to compare online and youâll get access to unbiased Energy Advisors to help you every step of the way. Get started here.
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With its sleek, uncluttered styling and more than 100 miles of battery-electric range before the extended range electric sedanâs gas engine kicks on, maybe the new Nissan N6 really should have been the next Maxima!
Struggling Japanese carmaker Nissan is dealing with an aging lineup and a brand identity driven more by subprime financing than any suggestion of reliability or sportiness here in the US â but overseas? The brand is rolling out hit after hit, and the latest Nissan N6 plug-in sedan promises exactly the sort of entry-level panache that could change its American fortunes.
âUnder our Re:Nissan plan, we are redefining what Nissan delivers today and beyond,â explains Nissan President and CEO Ivan Espinosa. âItâs about strengthening our core, reigniting Nissanâs heartbeat, and creating products that inspire excitement and trust. It is about a sharper, more focused product strategy, a stronger brand, and a renewed commitment to our customers. Integral to this transformation is China â an essential market whose speed, technological leadership, and customer insights are setting the pace for the global auto industry.â
Developed by the Nissan Dongfeng JV in China, the new N6 is more compact that the well-received N7 BEV. In fact, the new Nissan N6, at 190.1âł long, compares nicely to the 192.8âł length of the most recent (and largest-ever) US Maxima, discontinued in 2023. Like the Maxima, the top-shelf version features modern, near-luxe features like soft, leather-like surfaces, LED mood lighting, multi-way adjustable seats, and mimosas or something.
Mimosas or something
The four or five passengers inside the N6 are propelled down the road exclusively by the carâs 208 hp electric motor, which is efficient enough to take you 112 miles on a full charge of its 21.1 kWh LFP battery. Once that charge is depleted, a 1.5L gas engine kicks on as a high-efficiency generator to keep the good times rolling.
Nissan says the N6âČ exterior design, âfeatures a V-Motion signature grille and expressive LED lighting at the front and rear.â And says that the carâs crisp lines give it, âa confident, dynamic presence.â
All of which sounds good on its own, but sounds absolutely miraculous when you consider the carâs Chinese price: „106,900 â or about $15,000 US for the base Nissan N6 180 Pro, as I type this.
Even with a nearly 100% markup to give it a $29,990 price tag in the US, I think the N6 would be a huge hit in the North American market. And â good news! â thanks to Canadaâs apparent willingness to give Chinese carmakers a shot, we might find out if Iâm right somewhat sooner than later.
Check out the Nissan N6 image gallery, below, then let us know what you think of the carâs US and Canadian appeal in the comments.
Nissan N6 gallery
SOURCE | IMAGES: Nissan.
If youâre considering going solar, itâs always a good idea to get quotes from a few installers. To make sure you find a trusted, reliable solar installer near you that offers competitive pricing, check out EnergySage, a free service that makes it easy for you to go solar. It has hundreds of pre-vetted solar installers competing for your business, ensuring you get high-quality solutions and save 20-30% compared to going it alone. Plus, itâs free to use, and you wonât get sales calls until you select an installer and share your phone number with them.Â
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Environment
BLUETTI just dropped new home backup power stations â and slashed prices up to 65% for Black Friday
Whether youâre prepping for winter power outages, loading up the RV for a long-haul trip, or want clean, reliable power anywhere you go, BLUETTI has a portable power option for every need. And right now, the clean energy experts are offering up to 65% off their most popular products for Black Friday â plus theyâve just dropped two major new releases: the Elite 400 and B500K expansion battery.
Hereâs a complete guide to whatâs new, whatâs on sale, and how to pick the model that fits your lifestyle best. There are also some special deals just for Electrek readers, so donât miss out!
For home backup + outdoor adventures: Elite 200 V2 and all-new Elite 400
Elite 200 V2 â Best value for backup, camping, and van life
BLUETTIâs Elite 200 V2 is designed for power users who need versatility. Itâs nicknamed the âSwiss Army Knifeâ of portable power stations because it powers everything from your fridge to your laptop â whether youâre off the grid or just want to keep the lights on during a storm.
Key specs:
- Battery capacity: 2,073.6Wh
- Continuous power output: 2,600W (3,900W surge)
- 9 output ports: AC, DC, USB-C, and more
- Recharges to 80% in just over one hour
- Ultra-quiet 16 dB operation
- LiFePOâ battery with a 17-year lifespan (3,500+ cycles)
Who itâs for:
- RVers, weekend campers, off-grid explorers, small cabin owners
- Homeowners looking for dependable backup power
Commonly powered devices: Mini-fridges, coffee makers, power tools, microwaves, kettles, electric blankets, laptops, LED lights, wifi routers
Its compact profile makes it easy to tuck away in an RV cabinet, trunk, or apartment closet.
Elite 200 V2 Portable Power Station is regularly priced at $1,699, and itâs on sale for the record-low price of $699 â thatâs a 59% discount for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
Elite 400 Rolling Power Station â New and optimized for home
Launching November 15, the Elite 400 is a powerful 3.8kWh portable station designed with mobility and backup readiness in mind. With built-in wheels, a telescoping handle, and side grips, you can roll it anywhere â even if youâre flying solo.
Key specs:
- Battery capacity: 3,840Wh
- Continuous power output: 2,600W (3,900W lifting power)
- 9 output ports for simultaneous device charging
- 15ms UPS switchover during power outages
- Recharges to 80% in 70 minutes using AC + solar
- Low standby energy use (3W) with app-control wakeup and timers
Who itâs for:
- Homeowners needing serious backup power
- Outdoor event hosts, road trippers, off-grid enthusiasts
Commonly powered devices: Full-size refrigerators, sump pumps, CPAP machines, space heaters, power tools, projectors, outdoor cooking appliances, large TVs
Whether youâre powering your home in a blackout or running a campsite movie night, the Elite 400 delivers enough capacity to handle just about anything.
The new Elite 400 Portable Power Station is regularly priced at $2,999, and itâs making its debut on November 15 for $1,499 â thatâs a 50% discount for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
For whole-home power and off-grid living: Meet the new B500K expansion battery
If youâre looking for a system that grows with your energy needs, the B500K expansion battery delivers massive storage potential at a competitive cost of around $0.33/Wh â making it an excellent choice for users seeking higher capacity than the well-acclaimed B300K. Paired with the Apex 300, it also qualifies for the soon-to-end 30% Federal Tax Credit. Designed to integrate seamlessly into BLUETTIâs modular ecosystem, itâs ideal for home battery backup or off-grid setups.
Key specs:
- Supports up to 100 kWh storage (paired with Apex 300 system)
- Compatible with BLUETTIâs SolarX 4K, B300K, Hub D1, and more
- Acts as both standalone power or an expansion battery
- Future-proof with long-term ecosystem integration
The new B500K expansion battery is regularly priced at $2,999, and itâs making its debut on November 15 for $1,699 â thatâs a 43% discount for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
Ideal bundles:
- Apex 300 + B500K: Best for large homes, off-grid living, and whole-home backup. With a larger individual capacity, the B500K enables a plug-and-play power system that can be expanded to a massive 100 kWh with the Apex 300. It provides 3.8 kW of power output and 7,884.8 Wh of capacity in total.
The Apex 300 + B500K Home Battery Backup is priced at $4,998, and itâs on sale for Black Friday for $3,098 â thatâs a 38% discount.
- Apex 300 + B300K: The Apex 300, paired with the B300K, provides 5.5 kWh of capacity and up to 3.8kW of power output, offering smaller households or remote cabins reliable off-grid energy with room to scale. Itâs an ideal way to support essential loads, such as refrigerators, lights, fans, and wifi routers, without the need to invest in a larger setup.
The Apex 300 + B300K is normally priced at $4,098, and itâs on sale for Black Friday for $2,299 âthatâs a 44% discount.
Plus! Both bundles are fully eligible for the 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit through December 2025.
For everyday portability: Elite 30 V2 and the new Elite 10
Elite 30 V2 â now in EcoTide colors
If you need lightweight, flexible power for camping, car trips, desk-side charging, or college dorm use, the Elite 30 V2 is the sweet spot. Weighing just 4.3 kg, itâs a portable backup that fits in your backpack or on a small shelf. Plus, it comes in six fun colors.
Key specs:
- Battery capacity: 288Wh
- Continuous power output: 600W (1,500W surge)
- 9 output ports including 140W USB-C PD
- Charges to 80% in 45 minutes
- Quiet operation under 30 dB
- 10-year LiFePOâ battery lifespan, with a 5-year warranty
Ideal for powering: Laptops, DSLR cameras, portable fans, smartphones, drones, modems, LED lighting, external hard drives
Itâs perfect for digital nomads, travelers, or anyone who needs reliable backup power without adding bulk.
Elite 30 V2 Portable Power Station is regularly priced at $304, and itâs on sale for $199 â thatâs a 35% discount for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. You can buy it on BLUETTIâs website here and on Amazon here.
Sneak preview: The new Elite 10 â pocket-sized power
Launching on November 20, the palm-sized Elite 10 is BLUETTIâs most compact power station yet. Itâs the perfect in-between if a power bank wonât cut it, but you donât want a full-sized power station.
Key specs:
- Battery capacity: 128Wh
- Power output: 200W AC (300W peak, 400W surge)
- 5 DC outlets + 200W AC outlet
- Fully recharges in 70 minutes
- LED light modes: reading, warm, SOS
Perfect for powering: Bluetooth speakers, portable fans, DSLR cameras, tablets, Chromebooks, routers, handheld consoles, mini-fridges
Small enough to slip into a tote, train bag, or glovebox, the Elite 10 is built for everyday carry and quick power access.
The Elite 10 launches next week and is said to be the best budget-friendly option yet â available for under $150, and rumored to go even lower. Youâll be able to grab it on BLUETTIâs website and on Amazon here starting November 20.
Electrek exclusive discounts
In addition to the fantastic Black Friday Cyber Monday sale prices, up to 65% off, BLUETTI is offering a special discount code just for Electrek readers!
- 95% of BLUETTI products qualify for an extra 5% off with code: ELECTREK5OFF
- The new Elite 400 and all Apex 300 series products qualify for 6% off with code: ELECTREK6OFF
Now is the best time to invest in a power system thatâs quiet, clean, and ready whenever you need it â at home or beyond the grid.
The trusted name offers a full lineup of portable power stations to keep you charged â whether a winter storm hits or youâre enjoying outdoor adventures â and stay charged, no matter where life takes you.
Follow BLUETTI on Twitter/X here and on Facebook here.
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