Tesla is experiencing a backlash from its own customers, with several owners selling their vehicles in response to CEO Elon Musk’s actions, including his work on the DOGE office and his far-right politics. The company’s showrooms and vehicles are becoming targets for protests.
Scott Oran, a real estate developer from Boston, sold his 2018 Model 3 after feeling that Musk’s work was no longer aligned with his values. Oran initially bought the car due to Tesla’s environmental credentials and promise to address climate change. However, Musk’s direction of government layoffs and conspiracy theories made him feel uncomfortable owning the vehicle.
Other owners have also expressed concerns about their safety on the road, citing instances of harassment and backlash from other drivers. One owner traded in his 2021 Model 3 Performance for a Polestar 2 after Musk’s controversial gestures, including one at a Trump inauguration rally.
The company’s fortunes appear to be benefiting its EV rivals, with several owners opting for alternative brands like Polestar and Hyundai Ioniq 5. Tesla’s used-car market is saturated with pre-owned Model 3s and Ys, which has led to plummeting resale values in recent years.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/tesla-owners-selling-elon-musk-harassment-fear-protests-resale-values-2025-3