The American electric vehicle manufacturer is experiencing a significant decline in sales across Europe, particularly in Germany, where demand has plummeted due to increasing public dissatisfaction with CEO Elon Musk's political stances. The company's stock price has also suffered, reflecting broader concerns about Musk's involvement in controversial political activities.
In recent months, Tesla has encountered a sharp drop in sales, especially within the European market. In February alone, the company saw a dramatic decrease in vehicle purchases in Germany, one of the continent's largest markets for electric cars. This trend extends beyond Germany, as other European nations have also reported a decline in interest for Tesla products. The downturn has raised questions about the brand's future in the region and its ability to maintain its competitive edge.
Germany's automotive industry association revealed that Tesla's sales fell by 76% in February compared to the same period last year. This marks the second consecutive month of declining sales in the country. Analysts attribute this shift to growing unease among consumers regarding Musk's alignment with far-right ideologies and his vocal support for such movements on social media platforms. The negative sentiment has not only affected Tesla's reputation but has also contributed to a significant drop in the company's stock value, which has lost over 40% since December.
Beyond sales figures, Tesla and its CEO are facing increasing opposition from various groups across Europe. Activists and concerned citizens have launched campaigns aimed at discouraging the use of Tesla vehicles and services associated with Musk. These actions highlight the growing discontent with Musk's political activities and their perceived impact on society.
In London, a campaign has emerged urging people to abandon their Tesla vehicles and close their accounts on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. Similar protests have occurred in other parts of Europe, including Strasbourg, where activists distributed stickers warning Musk to stay away from the European Union. The situation escalated further when several Tesla vehicles were set ablaze in southern France, an incident that authorities deemed intentional. These events underscore the extent to which Musk's political actions have alienated segments of the public and potentially jeopardized Tesla's market position in Europe.