Nikola founder Trevor Milton accused of trying to derail bankruptcy case

Core Points - The court hearing regarding the sale of Nikola's assets to Lucid Motors proceeded without objections until a lawyer raised concerns about the auction process [1][2] - Nikola's founder Trevor Milton, recently pardoned, may challenge a $168 million arbitration award he owes to Nikola, which is significant in the bankruptcy case [3][4] - Nikola still possesses assets, including hydrogen-powered trucks, and plans to sell them after the Lucid transaction, which includes the sale of its Arizona factory and hiring of 300 employees [5][6] Group 1 - The sale of Nikola's assets to Lucid Motors was verbally approved by Judge Thomas Horan, with no objections filed initially [1] - A lawyer representing ISSO LLC, linked to Trevor Milton, expressed concerns about the auction process, indicating potential future disputes [2] - Milton's actions may be an attempt to undermine Nikola's sale process and impact the arbitration award [5][6] Group 2 - The $168 million arbitration award is a critical element of Nikola's Chapter 11 bankruptcy case, tied to false claims made by Milton during his tenure as CEO [4] - Nikola settled a class action lawsuit with shareholders by agreeing to distribute the arbitration award, highlighting the financial implications of Milton's actions [4] - Nikola's legal representatives believe Milton's involvement in the sale process is an attempt to harm the company for unclear benefits [5][6]