Tesla ordered to pay $162,000 for Model X fire after failed 'vandalism' defense

Tesla has been ordered by a Quebec court to pay C$161,700 (about $162,000) after a fire destroyed a 2020 Model X in Montreal. The insurer Intact had paid the owner, Sacha De Santis, and then sought reimbursement from Tesla Canada. Tesla argued the blaze was generally caused by misuse or vandalism, but the judge rejected that defense because Tesla offered no data supporting its theory. According to an expert report filed in court, the fire likely started on the passenger side of the dashboard due to a premature electrical failure, while the vehicle was still under Tesla’s warranty. The fire occurred around 1 a.m. on March 5, 2023, roughly three years after the SUV entered service. Tesla lost by default, tried to undo the ruling, and was denied.