Protests against Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk, have intensified globally, fueled by his political affiliations and leadership decisions. The “Tesla Takedown” movement, a grassroots initiative, has mobilized demonstrations across the United States, Europe, and beyond. Activists are targeting Tesla dealerships, urging divestment from the company, and calling for accountability regarding Musk’s influence on both the company and federal policies.

Global Protests and Vandalism

In the United States, protests have erupted in cities such as New York, Seattle, and California, with demonstrators criticizing Musk’s role in federal workforce reductions and his political ties. In Manhattan, nine individuals were arrested during a protest at a Tesla showroom.

Internationally, protests have spread to cities including London, Barcelona, and Lisbon. In London, activists from the group “Everyone Hates Elon” organized a public art event where participants destroyed a Tesla Model S to symbolize opposition to Musk’s influence.

Vandalism incidents have also been reported, with Tesla charging stations set on fire in Massachusetts and vehicles damaged in France.

Impact on Tesla’s Business

The protests and associated controversies have affected Tesla’s sales and stock performance. In Europe, sales have declined significantly, with reports indicating drops of up to 81% in some countries. Tesla’s stock value has also taken a hit, falling from $404 per share to $262, resulting in a loss of approximately $102 billion for Musk.

Internal Dissent and Employee Actions

Within Tesla, employees have expressed dissent regarding Musk’s leadership. Matthew LaBrot, a former Tesla manager, launched a website criticizing Musk’s political affiliations and was subsequently terminated from his position.

Conclusion

The escalating protests and internal dissent reflect growing concerns about Elon Musk’s leadership and its impact on Tesla’s reputation and operations. As the “Tesla Takedown” movement gains momentum, the company faces increasing pressure to address these issues and consider the broader implications of Musk’s political involvement on its global standing.