Sales of Tesla vehicles in France saw a dramatic decline of 59% in April, marking another challenging month for the electric vehicle (EV) giant.
This dip in sales comes amid mounting concerns about the company’s performance in Europe, particularly as the continent’s third-largest car market has witnessed a steady decline in Tesla registrations.
The latest figures, released by the French car body PFA on May 1, showed that in April 2025, Tesla registered just 7,556 vehicles in France, a sharp 44% drop compared to the same period in 2024.
This trend is in line with a broader downturn in Tesla sales across Europe, as highlighted by first-quarter data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), which reported a 45% drop in Tesla sales across the European Union.
The decline in sales raises important questions about Tesla’s competitiveness in the European market, where automakers are racing to produce more affordable and efficient electric vehicles.
While Tesla has long been a leader in the electric vehicle industry, its dominance in Europe appears to be eroding as local manufacturers such as Volkswagen, Renault, and Peugeot increasingly make strides in the EV sector.
Analysts point to multiple factors contributing to the drop in Tesla sales in France and across Europe. One significant factor could be the growing disconnection between Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, and European consumers.
Musk’s close ties with former U.S. President Donald Trump have attracted attention and scrutiny, particularly in light of the controversial role Musk has played in U.S. politics.
His association with Trump, known for his skepticism toward international alliances and the Paris climate agreement, may have alienated potential customers in Europe, where environmental concerns are a high priority for many consumers.
Musk’s public gestures, including what some historians have interpreted as a Nazi salute at Trump’s inauguration rally, have further fueled negative perceptions of the Tesla brand among certain segments of the population.
While the company continues to push forward with its technological innovations, these issues related to its leadership may be dampening its appeal to a European market that places significant importance on ethical and environmental considerations.
Another factor to consider is the increasing competition in the EV market. European consumers now have a wider array of choices, with many traditional automakers releasing more affordable electric models that cater to various customer needs.
Companies like Volkswagen and Renault have been successful in building consumer trust and offering compelling alternatives to Tesla’s vehicles.
In addition, regulatory changes in Europe, which aim to encourage local manufacturing of electric vehicles and reduce dependence on foreign imports, have put pressure on Tesla’s operations.
The EU’s green transition agenda, which is shaping the future of the automotive sector, has created a more competitive landscape where Tesla’s market share is increasingly under threat.
Despite the downturn, Tesla remains one of the most influential companies in the electric vehicle industry. However, with its position in Europe facing challenges, it remains to be seen how the company will adapt to the changing landscape and whether it can regain its momentum in the EU’s crucial car markets.
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