Article by:
John Neff
A small group of Tesla owners in France has sued the automaker over what they claim is damage done to their reputations. They assert the company's electric cars have become "extreme right" symbols on account of the actions of its CEO, Elon Musk, who gave his support to Donald Trump's bid for President of the United States, as well as the far-right AfD Party in Germany.
The plaintiffs include 10 Tesla leaseholders who are asking the Paris Commercial Court to terminate their leases and have Tesla cover their legal costs. GKA, the law firm representing the Tesla owners, said in a statement, "Because of Elon Musk's actions... Tesla-branded vehicles have become strong political symbols and now appear to be veritable extreme-right 'totems,' to the dismay of those who acquired them with the sole aim of possessing an innovative and ecological vehicle."
Tesla's reputation is tied closely to Musk, who, in lieu of a traditional marketing department, has historically acted as the company's public face and mouthpiece. For instance, Musk's personal Twitter/X account is where company announcements are usually made. Musk began making his affiliation with the political right public leading up to the 2024 presidential election in the U.S. That knowledge alone likely swayed some Tesla customers, who were predominantly left-leaning in their politics, supported environmentalism, and saw themselves on the leading edge of technology, from considering buying or continuing to own one of the company's vehicles. But Musk continued to generate controversy with his actions.
The lawsuit mentions other controversial actions by Musk, including his public support of the far-right AfD Party in Germany's 2025 federal elections. The AfD party is classified by the German domestic intelligence agency as a suspected right-wing terrorist group that aligns itself with some elements of Nazi ideology and deemphasizes the historical significance of the Holocaust.
Then, after Donald Trump's election win and inauguration, Musk performed a gesture onstage at a celebration rally that many interpreted as a Nazi salute. He denied the accusations, though both his and Tesla's reputation with many potential customers and owners were clearly affected.
The lawsuit in France is one of a number of signals that Tesla's fortunes have been negatively impacted by the actions of its CEO. Tesla vehicles have become targets of vandalism, so much so here in the U.S. that President Trump suggested those responsible be sent to prison in El Salvador, and Attorney General Pam Bondi has labeled such actions as "domestic terrorism."
Some Tesla owners who disagree with Musk's politics have made those differences known with bumper stickers that say, "I bought this before Elon went crazy," with the hope that passersby won't associate them with the company and Musk. Read more...
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