As technology and regulations continue to reshape the automotive industry, product litigation is expanding. Plaintiffs are increasingly using proactive actions, such as recalls and service campaigns, as a springboard for alleged class-wide claims based on pre-sale knowledge of issues or insufficient remedies. Meanwhile, courts remain divided on class certification and standing as to uninjured class members, adding uncertainty for nationwide defense strategies. Disputes over damages models, particularly survey-based methods, such as conjoint analysis, have become central to class viability. The rapid growth of electric and autonomous vehicles also introduces new risks tied to batteries, data security, and software reliability.
