Popularity has plummeted in markets like Germany, a country still haunted by its fascist past, where Tesla's share of EV sales plummeted to just 3.7% last month versus 14% a year earlier.

Summary

Tesla’s European sales are plummeting, with Germany seeing a 60% drop despite strong EV growth. Similar declines hit Norway, Sweden, and France.

While some blame the Osborne effect—buyers delaying purchases for a refreshed Model Y—Musk’s endorsement of Germany’s far-right AfD may also be repelling customers.

Online backlash has linked Tesla to fascist imagery. In contrast, UK sales fell only 7.8%, suggesting political factors play a role.

With strong domestic EV competition in Europe, Tesla’s reputation crisis could further hurt demand.

  • Tja@programming.devEnglish
    2·
    16 hours ago

    To give the car time to lower the window a few millimeters and avoid damaging the seal. Plus someone probably thought it would look cool or something. There’s a manual release in case the car loses power, or something breaks.

    It’s not unique to Teslas either, a few other cars have done the same thing.