Tesla is under fire in Europe as political controversy surrounding CEO Elon Musk sparks widespread protests and a dramatic decline in sales. Musk’s vocal support for far-right political parties has led to growing public outrage, with some Europeans calling for a boycott of Tesla vehicles.
Protests Erupt Across Europe
In Portugal, demonstrators gathered outside a Tesla showroom in Lisbon, protesting against Musk’s political endorsements. The timing is crucial as the country prepares for a potential snap election. Protesters accused Musk of using his influence to push political agendas, with many holding signs urging people to stop buying Tesla cars.
Germany has also seen strong backlash. Tesla registrations in the country plummeted by a staggering 76%—a shocking contrast to the overall rise in electric vehicle sales. Musk’s endorsement of the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party has been met with fierce criticism, and some Tesla properties across Europe have even been vandalized in protest.
Tesla’s Sales Plunge in Europe
The backlash is taking a toll on Tesla’s bottom line. Sales in Europe have fallen by 45% since January, despite the fact that the electric vehicle market as a whole has grown by 18%. Tesla’s market share has shrunk from 1.8% to just 1%, allowing Chinese competitors like SAIC Motor and BYD to gain ground.
Industry experts believe Tesla’s struggles aren’t just due to politics. Some analysts point out that Tesla’s current vehicle lineup is aging compared to newer offerings from rivals, making it less attractive to consumers. Many potential buyers are holding off for Tesla’s upcoming models, like the Model Y, while others are turning to alternative brands.
Is Musk Hurting Tesla’s Brand?
Musk’s political involvement is causing concerns for Tesla’s brand image. Many of Tesla’s loyal customers are environmentally conscious and lean towards more progressive values. By aligning with far-right ideologies, Musk risks alienating this key demographic, which could have long-term consequences for Tesla’s success.
Meanwhile, the “Tesla Takedown” movement is gaining momentum. This campaign encourages consumers to boycott Tesla vehicles and stocks in an effort to curb Musk’s political influence. If the movement continues to grow, it could spell even more trouble for Tesla’s European operations.
What’s Next for Tesla?
Tesla’s European woes highlight the risks of mixing business with politics. As Musk continues to engage in controversial political debates, Tesla’s sales and reputation are suffering. Whether the company can recover from this setback remains to be seen, but for now, it’s clear that European consumers are sending a strong message.
