Tesla Sales Drop Amid Political Backlash Against Elon Musk

Tesla is facing significant challenges, with sales in Europe plummeting by as much as 76% in Germany and 44% in France, amid growing competition and political backlash against CEO Elon Musk due to his ties with Donald Trump. In the UK, second-hand Tesla listings surged by 70% year-over-year, suggesting that many drivers are offloading their vehicles in response to Musk's controversial political stances. Analysts are divided on the implications of these sales declines, with some suggesting they are part of broader market dynamics and Tesla's transition to newer models, while others attribute the drop directly to Musk's political engagement, which has reportedly cost the brand about $15 billion in value. Despite these setbacks, some Wall Street analysts remain bullish about Tesla's long-term prospects, citing upcoming technological advancements as potential catalysts for recovery. Protests against Musk's political affiliations have also erupted outside Tesla stores worldwide, reflecting public discontent with his actions. As the company navigates these tumultuous waters, the focus remains on whether it can regain its footing in the competitive EV market.