Tesla Sales in Europe Drop 49% Amid Elon Musk Controversy and Ageing Models
By DAYO ADESULU
Tesla’s European electric vehicle (EV) sales have plummeted by 49% in the first two months of 2025 compared to the same period last year, according to data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) released on Tuesday.
Despite a 28.4% surge in overall EV sales across Europe, Tesla’s market share shrank to just 1.1%, with new Leading EV brand registrations dropping to 19,046 units between January and February 2025.
The sharp decline is attributed to aging leading EV brand models and growing consumer backlash against Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk, who has recently become a key supporter of US President Donald Trump.
Tesla Sales Drop as EV Market Expands
While overall electric car sales in the EU rose to 255,489 units, Electric vehicle manufacturer struggled to keep up. In February alone, Tesla’s registrations fell by 47% to 11,743 units.
ACEA’s Director General, Sigrid de Vries, acknowledged the overall growth in the EV sector but cautioned that the demand for electric cars still falls short of what’s needed for a smooth transition to zero-emission mobility.
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“The latest new car registration figures confirm that market demand for battery electric vehicles remains below the level needed for the transition to zero-emission mobility to progress,” de Vries stated.
She also emphasized the need for government incentives and better charging infrastructure to support EV adoption, particularly as the EU considers easing emission reduction targets for struggling European car manufacturers.
Why Are Tesla Sales Falling?
The massive drop in Tesla’s European market performance is linked to several factors:
1️⃣ Aging Tesla Models
🔹 EV giant’s Model 3 and Model Y, which dominate its lineup, have not seen significant design updates in recent years.
🔹 Competitors such as Volkswagen, BMW, and Hyundai are launching new, more advanced EVs, attracting EV giant’s potential buyers.
2️⃣ Elon Musk’s Political Influence
🔹 Many leading EV brand customers are reportedly boycotting the brand due to Musk’s strong support for Donald Trump and his role in the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
🔹 Critics argue that Musk’s divisive cost-cutting measures at EV giant and his political alignment have alienated environmentally conscious consumers.
3️⃣ Vandalism and Negative Publicity
🔹 Several EV giant dealerships in the US have been vandalized in recent weeks, reflecting growing hostility towards the brand.
🔹 Tesla’s stock price has plummeted, leading to uncertainty about the company’s future.
Hybrid Cars Dominate as Petrol and Diesel Decline
While EV giant struggles, hybrid-electric vehicles continue to dominate the European car market.
📌 Hybrid car registrations surged to 594,059 units in the first two months of 2025, securing a 35.2% market share—outpacing both petrol and diesel vehicles.
📌 Petrol cars now hold a 29.1% market share, while diesel vehicles have dropped to just 9.7%.
📌 Meanwhile, pure electric vehicles accounted for 15.2% of new car registrations.
Can Tesla Bounce Back in Europe?
EV giant’s recent sales decline raises serious questions about its long-term strategy in Europe. The company must address:
🔹 The aging product lineup by introducing new, innovative models.
🔹 The growing consumer backlash tied to Elon Musk’s political stance.
🔹 Strengthening its brand image and customer trust amid increasing competition.
With EV demand rising globally, Tesla’s ability to regain market share will depend on its response to these emerging challenges.
