Tesla owners in British Columbia are feeling embarrassed by the company’s CEO, Elon Musk, amid a charged political climate. Vancouver police are investigating a case of vandalism at a Tesla dealership, where an obscene remark about Musk was spray-painted on an exterior wall.
Despite Musk’s involvement with the US government, many Tesla owners say it’s not a reflection of their own views. Bob Porter, president of the Vancouver Electric Vehicle Association, says getting behind the wheel of a Tesla isn’t a political statement for most drivers.
However, some owners are putting up stickers that read “I bought this before Elon went crazy,” implying Musk has become increasingly divisive. Industry analysts expect a dip in Tesla sales due to anti-Musk sentiment, but others argue the company faces more significant headwinds, including rising prices and increased competition.
Tesla’s presence in the EV industry is also being questioned, with some worried that Musk’s ties will slow down electric vehicle adoption. Tim Burrows, a board member of Electric Vehicle Society, expects fewer purchase incentives to be offered, which could impact the transition to electric vehicles.
Source: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/vancouver-tesla-owners-1.7460386