Tesla sales and image are in some serious trouble. The culprit is apparently the billionaire CEO of the brand and US government tinkerer Elon Musk. Twitter/X, which Musk owns, is a buzz with posts and comments about entertainer Sheryl Crow posting on Instagram that she sold her Tesla and donated the money to NPR as a protest against Musk. Crow wrote on Instagram, ” “There comes a time when you have to decide who you are willing to align with. So long, Tesla.”
Sheryl Crow sells Tesla, donates money to NPR in spat with ‘President Musk’ https://t.co/PlFIkBHTmV pic.twitter.com/qRrS1c1irc
— New York Post (@nypost) February 15, 2025
On its website, NPR, or National Public Radio, is described as “…an independent, nonprofit media organization that was founded on a mission to create a more informed public.” However, Musk has long criticized the media outlet as controlled by the government. A claim NPR has denied.
Musk’s political antics are irritating others as well. Teslas are reportedly being dumped by other drivers who are put off by his support of President Donald Trump’s agenda and the efforts of his Department of Government Efficiency or DOGE agency. Meanwhile, Teslas’ image as the hip and cool EV, electric vehicle, to buy is fading.
In California, the love affair with Tesla may be headed for a breakup. The Golden State is the largest electric vehicle market in the country. Nonetheless, the company’s market share reportedly has dropped from 60% in 2023 to 52%. Worldwide, Tesla sales are down sharply. Some blame Musk’s new role in the Trump administration, while others point to the growing competition among EVs.
Meanwhile, Tesla’s futuristic Cybertruck has hit a few bumps in the road. The pickup truck has faced several recalls since being released at the end of 2023. Also, some people see the Cybertruck as a political statement. Musk and Trump supporters are big fans. Others see the stainless steel truck as a symbol of Trumpism and Musk’s chaotic DOGE. The Cybertruck is now part of a culture war, adding to its many struggles.
