Large Group of Angry Vikings Sues Tesla, Claims Model S is Too Slow

Electric-vehicle buyers in Norway enjoy hefty perks, from tax exemptions to free parking, but not everything is rosy in the world’s EV-friendliest country.

A group of 125 Norwegians has sued American automaker Tesla, alleging that the company’s Model S P85D with “Insane Mode” is simply not fast enough, Bloomberg reports.

Launched in late 2014 (but no longer in production), the P85D offered customers two motors, all-wheel drive, and a combined 691 horsepower. Insane Mode launches the vehicle from a stop to 60 miles per hour in a claimed 3.2 seconds. The automaker now offers a faster Ludicrous Mode.

Despite Norway’s deep, deep love for the Model S — the electricity-rich Scandinavian country is among the automaker’s biggest customers — these Norwegians felt the vehicle was cramping their style. They’re seeking an undisclosed amount of cash compensation.

The P85D has “too low horsepower,” attorney Kaspar N. Thommessen of the Wikborg Rein law firm told Bloomberg. He added, “And of course, it affects the car’s performance, according to the consumers.”

Hearings in Oslo District Court are scheduled for mid-December, but Tesla has already fired back at the litigants. The automaker claims independent tests show the P85D can accelerate to 60 mph in 3.1 to 3.3 seconds. Engine power is confirmed by European regulators, it added.

While the case can easily be seen as an eye-rolling gripe, it’s a concern for Tesla, as Norwegian litigants have collected cash on this claim before. In June, Norway’s Consumer Disputes Commission awarded five P85D owners 50,000 kroner ($7,500) each after they complained of slow acceleration.