The Righteous EV Owners Who Won’t Let Their Broken Cars Die

Wired

by Aarian Marshall

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A group of dedicated Fisker Ocean electric vehicle owners has come together to fight for "right to repair" rights after the automaker went bankrupt in 2024. When Svein Hodne found himself locked inside his dead EV during a Norweigan storm, he turned to the Fisker Owners Association for help. The community sprang into action, with members like Jens Guthe guiding the tow driver through complex steps to free Hodne. This incident sparked a global movement among Ocean owners who feel abandoned by Fisker and are now taking matters into their own hands. The story highlights how modern vehicles depend on proprietary software, leaving owners stranded when manufacturers fail to support their cars. The Fisker Owners Association has grown into a volunteer-run network of over 4,000 members across the world. They share knowledge, develop custom software updates, and source hard-to-find parts to keep their EVs running. Their efforts have turned into a DIY automotive collective, proving that car enthusiasts can create their own repair ecosystem. This movement matters to tech-savvy readers because it challenges the dominance of big tech companies in the auto industry. By pushing for open-source solutions and community-driven innovation, these owners are redefining how consumers interact with technology and commerce. Their story shows the power of grassroots organizing in a world where corporations often prioritize profits over customer needs. Ultimately, the Fisker Owners Association demonstrates that even when traditional systems fail, passionate communities can rise to the challenge. Their fight for repair rights is not just about fixing cars—it's about reclaiming control in an economy dominated by profit-driven tech giants. As electric vehicles become more common, this grassroots movement could pave the way for a more equitable approach to car ownership and maintenance.

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Originally published on Wired on 2/24/2026