Sunnyvale, California – Residents across the Bay Area are making a significant shift in their vehicle preferences, with many choosing to part ways with their once-beloved Tesla cars. The decision to sell their Teslas is largely fueled by a desire to distance themselves from Elon Musk, the controversial CEO of the company.
For Janis Brown, her love for her dark green Model S turned to embarrassment as she became increasingly disillusioned with Musk’s actions and statements. The same sentiment is echoed by others, such as the Richmond couple Brian Ambrosch and Shelley Facente, who decided to trade their Model 3 for a different electric car brand due to their disapproval of Musk.
The trend of selling Teslas is evident in the statistics as well, with California’s Tesla sales dropping by 11.6% in 2024 compared to the previous year. This decline marks the first time the company has reported such a drop in sales. Additionally, Tesla’s stock experienced a 50% dip from its peak in December of the same year.
Monika Gorkani, a Los Gatos resident, also decided to sell her Model 3 after losing faith in Musk’s leadership. Gorkani, who used to admire Musk for his efforts in combating climate change, felt conflicted after witnessing his controversial business decisions and statements.
Despite the growing backlash against Musk, some Tesla owners remain dedicated to the brand and the company’s vision for sustainable transportation. Tesla car clubs in the Bay Area continue to promote community events and support for the electric vehicles, emphasizing that the company is more than just its CEO.
John Stringer, president of Tesla Owners Silicon Valley and a proud Cybertruck owner, is committed to staying loyal to the brand. Stringer recognizes the hard work of Tesla’s employees and believes in the future of high-performing electric vehicles, despite the challenges posed by Musk’s controversies.
As tensions rise and acts of vandalism against Tesla vehicles and owners become more common, Stringer urges for understanding and empathy. While acknowledging the polarizing nature of current events, he emphasizes the importance of separating personal feelings towards Musk from the passionate community of Tesla owners and workers.
Overall, the shift in sentiment towards Tesla reflects a complex interplay of personal values, ethical considerations, and loyalty to a brand. As residents navigate their relationship with their vehicles in light of Musk’s actions, the Bay Area continues to be a hub of innovation and conversation surrounding the future of transportation.