Tesla may still be the world’s largest electric vehicle (EV) maker, but growing resentment for its CEO Elon Musk has resulted in vandalised cars in the US and fake billboards attempting to dissuade buyers in Europe.
Mr Musk has drawn criticism – and support – since aligning himself with now-US President Donald Trump in the leadup to last year’s election, subsequently becoming a senior White House advisor and leading cost-cutting efforts under the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
In addition to this, Mr Musk has offered commentary on the politics of nations outside the US, alienating some parts of the population with his views.
This has subsequently led to protests against Tesla, including a small fraction of his critics vandalising the brand’s EVs in the US.
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North American Tesla showrooms, holding yards and charging stations have been the primary targets of arson and vandalism in the US, but privately owned vehicles have also been damaged in the US – with the perpetrators linking ownership of a Tesla to direct support for Mr Musk’s political views.
Mr Musk, President Trump and US Attorney General Pamela Bondi have labelled the attacks as “domestic terrorism”, with the latter threatening perpetrators to be charged as such.
“The days of committing crimes without consequence have ended,” said Ms Bondi.
“Let this be a warning: if you join this wave of domestic terrorism against Tesla properties, the Department of Justice will put you behind bars.”
The latter statement was made after three individuals were charged with “the violent destruction of Tesla properties” in three separate incidents. They now each face a minimum penalty of five years and up to 20 years in prison.
In Europe and the UK, a number of billboards have appeared, linking Mr Musk and Tesla to far-right political viewpoints.
One group that has been active in this space is called Everyone Hates Elon.
Most billboards lean heavily on Mr Musk’s stiff-arm salute during President Trump’s inauguration, which the South African-born executive claimed was a Roman salute.
Teslas have also been the target of arson attacks in France.
In Australia and some parts of Europe, Tesla sales have dropped significantly year-on-year, with some linking this to Mr Musk’s increasing interest in politics, while others point to a rise in affordable competitors.
