Tue Mar 25 09:14:32 UTC 2025: ## Tesla Sales Plummet in Europe Amidst Competition, Musk Controversy, and Aging Models
**Brussels, [Date]** – Tesla’s European sales have experienced a dramatic downturn, falling 49 percent year-on-year in January and February, according to data released by the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA). This sharp decline, which saw Tesla’s market share plummet from 2.1 percent to 1.1 percent, contrasts with a 28.4 percent overall growth in EU electric vehicle (EV) sales during the same period.
The ACEA report attributes Tesla’s struggles to several factors. Aging models are failing to compete with newer, cheaper EVs from established automakers and emerging Chinese manufacturers. Furthermore, the ongoing controversies surrounding CEO Elon Musk are impacting consumer perception and driving boycott movements across the EU. Musk’s vocal support for far-right groups and his association with the Trump administration, which has threatened Europe with trade wars, are cited as contributing factors to the sales decline. Reports of vandalism at Tesla dealerships further highlight the negative sentiment.
While the overall EV market is expanding, ACEA Director General Sigrid de Vries expressed concern that current growth is insufficient to meet the goals of the zero-emission mobility transition. He advocated for increased government support, including tax incentives and investments in charging infrastructure. The European Union is reportedly considering easing emission reduction targets.
Despite Tesla’s setbacks, the broader EV market remains strong, with electrified vehicles (BEVs, HEVs, and PHEVs) comprising 58.4 percent of all passenger car registrations in February. However, hybrid-electric vehicles continue to dominate the market, accounting for 594,059 registrations (35.2 percent market share) in the first two months of the year. The report underscores the need for continued policy support to drive the transition towards fully electric vehicles.
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