A California judge on February 2 ordered Tesla to pay $1.5 million as part of a settlement for a civil lawsuit.
The 25 district attorneys accused the Austin-based EV maker of mishandling hazardous waste at its auto service facilities, energy centers, and a factory. The attorneys engaged in the case stated that the lawsuit was filed in San Joaquin County. They also charged Tesla with illegal disposal of hazardous waste, as well as violations of waste storage and management laws.
According to statements from the district attorneys, Tesla cooperated with the investigation and took steps to improve its adherence to the laws that the prosecutors had brought to its attention.
District Attorney Ron Freitas of San Joaquin County has highlighted the importance of electric vehicles in improving the environment. At the same time, he has pointed out that the production and maintenance of these vehicles result in harmful waste that needs to be recognized and addressed.
Currently, Tesla owns and operates around 57 auto repair shops, 18 solar power plants, and an electric vehicle manufacturing facility in Fremont, located near the San Francisco Bay Area.
As a part of the settlement, Tesla has agreed to pay $1.3 million in civil penalties, as well as $200,000 to cover the cost of employee training, third-party waste audits, and investigation expenses.
