Tesla sales plunge after Elon Musk backlash

Tesla, the well-known electric car manufacturer, has recently experienced a significant decline in its sales figures, reaching their lowest point in three years. In the first quarter of 2025, the company managed to deliver nearly 337,000 electric vehicles, which marks a 13% decrease compared to the same period last year. Following the announcement of these disappointing sales numbers, Tesla's stock prices fell sharply during early trading on Wednesday. One of the contributing factors to this decline is the increasing competition from the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD. However, many analysts and investors believe that the real issue lies with Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, whose controversial actions and statements have alienated some customers. Ross Gerber, an early investor in Tesla, expressed his frustration on social media, stating that the sales figures are unacceptable and suggesting that the brand may be irreparably damaged. He even called for the board to consider removing Musk from his position as CEO. The backlash against Musk has been fueled by his outspoken political involvement, which has led to protests and boycotts of Tesla products around the world. Musk has been actively participating in a government initiative aimed at reducing federal spending and cutting down the workforce. On Wednesday, reports surfaced indicating that former President Donald Trump had informed his close associates that Musk would be stepping back from his government role in the coming weeks. Following this news, Tesla's stock price briefly recovered. However, the White House quickly dismissed these reports as false. Due to his status as a special government employee, Musk is legally limited to serving only 130 days in the administration this year, which means he may have to step down by June. Musk, who is currently the richest person in the world, has contributed over a quarter of a billion dollars to support Trump's election campaign. Recently, he also invested millions in a Wisconsin Supreme Court race, backing former Republican attorney general Brad Schimel, who ultimately lost the election. The backlash against Musk has manifested in various ways, including vandalism at Tesla dealerships across the United States and Europe. In response to a recent fire at a Tesla outlet in Rome that destroyed 17 cars, the Italian government has advised local police to enhance security measures at Tesla locations. Musk's ability to manage his businesses, including Tesla, has come under scrutiny. In a recent interview, he admitted that he is finding it challenging to run his companies, stating, 'Frankly, I can't believe I'm here doing this. ' Since the beginning of the year, Tesla's stock has lost more than a quarter of its value. Analyst Dan Ives commented that the sales figures were disastrous and that Musk's political activities are negatively impacting the brand. Tesla has not provided a comment on the situation but did state in a filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission that the sales numbers released on Wednesday represent only a small portion of the company's overall performance and should not be viewed as a definitive indicator of quarterly financial results. A comprehensive earnings report will be released on April 22, which will provide a clearer picture of the company's financial health. This report will take into account various factors, including average selling price, cost of sales, and foreign exchange movements. Additionally, Tesla noted that it had temporarily halted production of its Model Y sport utility vehicles in January. Following the release of the sales report, Randi Weingarten, the president of the American Federation of Teachers, reached out to numerous public pension funds regarding Tesla's performance, describing the latest sales figures as 'abysmal. ' She urged these funds to closely examine their investments in Tesla and the actions of their money managers to protect retirement assets. Weingarten expressed concern that Musk's focus on political activities, which may conflict with Tesla's brand and business interests, is contributing to the company's struggles. The comptroller for New York City has announced plans to sue Tesla on behalf of the city's pension systems, claiming that they have lost over $300 million in just three months due to the company's declining stock price. Comptroller Brad Lander stated, 'Elon Musk is so distracted that he's driving Tesla off a financial cliff.