A Tesla dealership in southern France became the latest casualty of growing tensions surrounding Elon Musk’s political involvement.
In the early hours of Monday morning, a massive fire broke out at the showroom in Plaisance-du-Touch, near Toulouse, reducing 12 vehicles to ashes.
Authorities estimate the damage to be around £550,000 and are treating the incident as a deliberate attack.
Investigation Launched as Officials Suspect Foul Play
Local prosecutors confirmed that an investigation is underway, with officials focusing on potential arson.
Reports suggest that intruders cut through the dealership’s fencing before setting the blaze.
The attack occurred around 3:15 AM, and emergency services rushed to the scene, but the fire had already engulfed much of the showroom.
Political Tensions Fuel Anti-Tesla Sentiment
The attack comes against a backdrop of increasing resentment toward Musk in Europe, particularly over his perceived interference in EU politics and his open support for former U.S. President Donald Trump.
European leaders have voiced concerns about Musk’s influence, with French President Emmanuel Macron warning about powerful figures shaping global politics.
Though he did not mention Musk by name, his remarks were widely interpreted as a reference to the billionaire’s growing political footprint.
Jean-Noël Barrot, France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, has urged the EU to take a firmer stance against Musk, accusing him of meddling in domestic affairs.
The controversy deepened after Musk expressed support for right-wing, eurosceptic parties, including Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD), prompting strong criticism from German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
Europe Sees Growing Resistance to Musk and Trump
The suspected arson attack is not an isolated incident.
Across Europe, opposition to Musk and Trump has led to boycotts, protests, and even acts of vandalism.
In Norway, a major fuel supplier recently announced it would cease deliveries to U.S. warships in response to Trump’s policies toward Ukraine.
Gunnar Gran, CEO of Haltbakk Bunkers, stated that his company would no longer serve American military vessels, citing moral reasons and solidarity with Ukraine.
Tesla Faces Backlash as Sales Plummet
Public sentiment against Musk appears to be affecting Tesla’s business in Europe.
Sales in France have dropped by 45% in the first two months of the year compared to the same period in 2024.
Vandalism and arson attacks targeting Tesla dealerships have been reported in multiple countries, with law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, now involved in the investigations.
Adding to the controversy, Musk’s role in U.S. politics has fueled further discontent.
His recent appointment as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under Trump’s administration has sparked debates over his influence on foreign policy and federal spending.
One of Musk’s first moves in this role was advocating for a freeze on foreign aid, directly impacting U.S. assistance to Ukraine.
Anti-Tesla Protests Gain Momentum Worldwide
In response to Musk’s political activities, activists across the U.S. and Europe have launched protests against Tesla, with demonstrations staged outside dealerships in major cities such as New York, San Francisco, and London.
The movement, dubbed “Tesla Takedown,” encourages people to boycott the company by refusing to buy Tesla vehicles and divesting from its stock.
Nathan Phillips, an environmental activist from Massachusetts, explained the movement’s goals: “We can send a message to Musk by hitting him where it hurts – his wallet.
If we stop buying Teslas, if we push people to sell their shares, it will make an impact.”
Some Tesla owners have reported their vehicles being vandalized, with disturbing incidents such as swastikas being spray-painted on cars, raising concerns about the rise of antisemitic attacks.
Musk Dismisses Backlash, White House Stands Firm
Despite mounting opposition, Musk has brushed off the criticism, asserting that Tesla’s brand remains strong.
The White House has also defended Musk and Trump, insisting that their agenda to streamline government operations will continue regardless of protests.
“Protests will not derail President Trump and Elon Musk from delivering on their commitment to make the federal government more efficient and accountable to the American people,” said White House spokesperson Harrison Fields.
What Lies Ahead for Tesla and Musk?
As investigations continue into the suspected arson attack in France, it remains to be seen whether Tesla will face more targeted acts of vandalism or a sustained decline in sales.
With political tensions escalating and Musk remaining a divisive figure, the future of Tesla in Europe hangs in the balance.
Will the backlash subside, or is this just the beginning of a larger movement against Musk and his business empire?