Tesla's sales crash as Elon Musk's politics alienate fans
- Tesla's vehicle sales in Europe have plummeted significantly, with losses of over 73% in key countries.
- Many Tesla owners are now disillusioned with Elon Musk due to his political involvement and past promises.
- The steep decline in sales and vehicle values indicates a broader loss of faith in the brand, affecting both current owners and investors.
In April 2025, Tesla's sales figures revealed a dramatic decline in Europe, with reported drops of 81% in Sweden and 73.8% in the Netherlands. The company, which has been lauded for its electric vehicle innovations, found itself facing severe economic pressures despite a general increase in demand for electric vehicles across the continent. This downturn reflects not only heightened competition, especially from Chinese manufacturers but also a shift in consumer sentiment largely attributed to CEO Elon Musk's controversial political stances and actions. Tesla faced challenges long before this significant drop, as the company's history has been marked by a series of product delays, quality control issues, and financial setbacks. The controversies surrounding Elon Musk and his involvement in political matters have soured relationships with some of Tesla's biggest supporters—investors and owners alike. Many former fans who once believed in the vision of Tesla now express disappointment, leading to a stressful situation for those who are trying to sell their Tesla vehicles, which have also seen a reduction in market value. The situation has worsened due to Tesla's investment in infrastructure, including a gigafactory in Germany that began operations in 2021 but is now believed to be underutilized. Despite the factory's capacity to produce up to 375,000 cars a year, the current demand does not support this level of output, exacerbating the company's financial woes. The decreasing sales in Europe add insult to injury, as Tesla must grapple with the reality of competing against established and emerging EV manufacturers, all while trying to maintain its reputation and viability in a rapidly evolving marketplace. Musk's decision to engage more directly in governmental efforts has also drawn the ire of many consumers, further complicating the company's public relations. Protests have emerged outside Tesla stores and service centers, indicating a growing dissatisfaction among customers and stakeholders alike. As the first quarter of 2025 closed, Musk indicated plans to shift his focus back to Tesla full-time. However, the damage appears to be done, with many fans and investors losing faith in the leadership and direction of the company they once passionately supported.