Tesla, the renowned electric vehicle manufacturer, is grappling with a myriad of challenges as protests erupt at its U.S. showrooms while its vehicles become targets of vandalism. These events coincide with a significant drop in Tesla's stock value, which had previously soared to $479 per share by mid-December but has since plummeted by 45%. This turmoil is not isolated to Tesla alone, as other companies led by Elon Musk are also encountering difficulties.
In the wake of these issues, Tesla owners have expressed their dissatisfaction through bumper stickers declaring, "I bought it before Elon went nuts." Meanwhile, the troubles extend beyond U.S. borders. Research firm Jato Dynamics reports a 45% plunge in Tesla sales across Europe in January, despite a rise in overall electric vehicle sales on the continent. Notably, sales numbers have been particularly grim in Germany and France.
Amidst these challenges, Elon Musk's social media platform, X, experienced multiple crashes on Monday due to what Musk described as a "massive" cyberattack. Simultaneously, SpaceX, another Musk-led venture, faced setbacks when a rocket exploded over Florida just two months after a previous failed launch.
Tesla's struggles are evident in its declining sales figures worldwide. In California, the company's largest U.S. market, sales are falling sharply. Globally, Tesla recorded its first annual sales decline last year. The company's shares have dropped 45% in 2025, with Monday witnessing a further fall of over 15%, closing at $222.15.
The situation is equally concerning in China, where Tesla faces fierce competition from domestic electric vehicle manufacturers. Sales in the region have nearly halved compared to February of the previous year. Federal authorities have also charged a woman for vandalizing a Tesla dealership in Colorado, highlighting the intensifying backlash against the automaker.
Former President Donald Trump commented on the situation, stating:
"Illegally and collusively boycott Tesla, one of the World’s great automakers, and Elon’s ‘baby’." – Donald Trump
This remark underscores the polarizing nature of the current climate surrounding Tesla and its leadership.
