TESLA is facing a major sales slump across Europe, with new data revealing sharp declines that coincide with growing public protests against its CEO, Elon Musk. The downturn comes as Musk’s controversial political activities, particularly his influence over US foreign policy under President Donald Trump, spark widespread criticism.
According to recent reports, Tesla’s sales in France have plummeted by 63 percent, while Germany saw a 59 percent drop. In other key European markets like Sweden, Norway, and the Netherlands, sales fell by 44 percent, 38 percent, and 42 percent respectively. These figures are particularly alarming given Europe’s status as one of the fastest-growing markets for electric vehicles.
Musk’s political ties fuel public outrage
The steep decline in Tesla’s sales is not solely a result of market forces. Analysts point to Musk’s deepening ties with the Trump administration as a key factor behind the backlash. Recently, Musk has been at the centre of political controversy following reports of his influence on Trump’s executive order that cut US aid to South Africa and offered refugee status to Afrikaners, a move widely criticised as racially biased.
Trump’s executive order, which cites alleged discrimination against white South African farmers, has drawn fierce condemnation from the international community. Many accuse Musk—himself a South African-born billionaire—of leveraging his relationship with Trump to influence foreign policy decisions that align with his personal and political interests.
Protests erupt worldwide
Public outrage over Musk’s political influence has spilled into the streets. Protests have been reported across the US and Europe, with demonstrators targeting Tesla charging stations and company offices. In Waterville, Maine, activists braved freezing temperatures to protest against Tesla, while in Washington, DC, crowds gathered outside the Department of Labor, accusing Musk of meddling in government affairs.
These protests have not only dented Tesla’s brand image but also impacted consumer confidence. In the US, a new Economist/YouGov poll shows that Musk’s popularity among Republican voters has plummeted by 21 points since Trump’s return to office. Among Democrats and Independents, support for Musk’s involvement in government is a mere 6 percent.
Legal battles and growing scrutiny
Musk’s influence doesn’t stop at foreign policy. Reports suggest he has gained unprecedented access to sensitive US government systems, including the Treasury Department’s payment infrastructure and federal employee records. Legal challenges are mounting, with lawsuits filed to block Musk’s involvement in government affairs, citing concerns over data security and conflicts of interest.
A recent Wall Street Journal investigation revealed troubling details about Musk’s associates, including individuals with links to extremist groups and cybercriminal networks. These revelations have intensified scrutiny over Musk’s business practices and his growing influence within the highest levels of government.
Impact on Tesla’s future
The combination of political controversies, legal battles, and declining public trust poses a significant threat to Tesla’s future. Industry analysts warn that the company’s sales slump could worsen if Musk continues to entangle his business interests with political agendas.
Despite Tesla’s stronghold in the electric vehicle market, its reputation as a symbol of innovation is now overshadowed by Musk’s divisive actions. As protests grow louder and legal investigations deepen, Tesla faces an uphill battle to regain consumer trust and stabilise its global sales.
Elon Musk’s political entanglements are proving costly—not just for his public image but for Tesla’s bottom line. As sales decline and public protests mount, the electric car giant must navigate a complex landscape where business, politics, and public opinion are more intertwined than ever.
