[tcarney]

I think the issue is that Tesla has a warranty problem, not a design flaw. With batteries, even if the battery management system shuts itself down and all subsystems, the battery cells will still internally drain to damaging levels. Until battery technology improves that will be a real problem with all electric cars. Unlike driving with no oil and needing an engine replacement, this is primarily a problem with the car (not driver negligence), so it should probably be covered under warranty, or qualify for the cheaper $12k replacement.

Note: I do not know how Tesla designed their systems, they possibly could do a better job to extend the storage time, but it will still be a problem. Any car with an electric start has this problem, if you don't charge the battery in storage it will require service/replacement. Of course it won't be $40k...

Do anyone have similar stories from other electric cars? Is there a maximum storage time listed for the Prius, Volt, or Leaf?