Rivera White FR Romy Bianco – US Correspondent, Washington D.C.
In recent months, Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk, have become the target of a wave of vandalism, boycotts, and economic pressure that appears to be part of a broader campaign against the entrepreneur. Once a symbol of innovation and technological progress, the company now finds itself at the center of a heated political and economic debate.
Vandalism and Sabotage Attacks
Several Tesla dealerships have been targeted in the United States and Europe, with acts of vandalism ranging from graffiti protests on storefronts to arson attacks. Similar incidents have been reported at Supercharger stations, where charging units have been deliberately damaged. While some cases appear to be isolated, the increasing frequency of such incidents suggests a concerning escalation.
In Berlin, four Tesla vehicles were set on fire under suspicious circumstances. Meanwhile, in South Carolina, a man was arrested for attempting to destroy a charging station with Molotov cocktails. These incidents have fueled debates over Tesla’s infrastructure security and the growing hostility toward the company.
Boycotts and Declining Sales
Beyond acts of vandalism, Tesla is also facing an organized boycott by consumer groups protesting Elon Musk’s political positions. His public support for Donald Trump and controversial statements have led some customers to distance themselves from the company.
Sales in Europe have plummeted, with declines of 76% in Germany, 45% in France, and 42% in Sweden. In the United States, Tesla’s stock value has dropped by 48% since the beginning of the year, reflecting investors’ concerns about the company’s future in an increasingly hostile market.
Musk’s Response: Balancing Politics and Business
In response to these attacks and economic challenges, Elon Musk has sought political support from the Trump administration. The former president condemned the vandalism as “domestic terrorism” and expressed solidarity with Tesla.
However, Musk’s political involvement continues to polarize public opinion. While some see him as a defender of free speech and entrepreneurship, others accuse him of turning Tesla into a divisive symbol, distancing it from its original values.
The battle for Tesla’s future is just beginning. Whether the company can overcome this crisis will depend not only on Musk’s strategic decisions but also on Tesla’s ability to maintain the trust of its customers and investors in an increasingly politicized landscape.