French Tesla Owners Sue Over Elon Musk's Far-Right Politics Impact

A coalition of ten Tesla owners in France has launched a lawsuit against the electric vehicle manufacturer, citing CEO Elon Musk's controversial political affiliations and statements as a primary reason for their discontent. This legal action, filed in the Paris Commercial Court, arises amidst a significant decline in Tesla sales across Europe, particularly following Musk's appearance at a rally for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in January 2025.

According to the French PFA registrar, Tesla sales plummeted by 67% in May 2025 compared to the same month in the previous year. This decline follows Musk's inflammatory remarks, where he suggested that Germany should "move on" from its Nazi past, provoking reactions from consumers and activists alike. Ivan Terel, a partner at GKA, the Paris law firm representing the plaintiffs, stated, "They don't want to be associated anymore with Tesla or personified by Elon Musk and his recent political stances."

The lawsuit is grounded in a provision of the French civil code that mandates sellers to ensure a "peaceful use of the goods sold." Terel argues that the unprecedented circumstances tied to Musk's political stance warrant the application of this law. The plaintiffs are seeking to void their vehicle leases and to recover the original costs associated with their Tesla ownership, along with additional damages.

In a troubling turn, incidents of vandalism against Tesla vehicles have also been reported, with some owners discovering swastikas painted on their cars or finding them defaced. Terel mentioned that several of his clients had experienced such acts of violence, illustrating the broader social ramifications of Musk's political engagement.

Musk's political involvement is not a new phenomenon; he previously served as a close ally of former U.S. President Donald Trump during the early days of Trump's second term, but that relationship soured, leaving Musk politically isolated. The repercussions of his political affiliations have now extended beyond public sentiment, impacting Tesla's market performance and the personal experiences of its owners.

As the Paris Commercial Court prepares to evaluate the merits of the case, the outcome may set a precedent for how corporate leaders' political affiliations can influence consumer relations and brand loyalty. This case has garnered interest from other Tesla owners who are considering joining the lawsuit, indicating a growing sentiment against Musk's political statements and their perceived impact on the Tesla brand.

In light of these developments, the implications for Tesla's reputation and sales in Europe could be profound. The case raises significant questions about corporate responsibility and the intersection of politics and consumer trust in the electric vehicle sector, as well as the potential for a ripple effect across the automotive industry as stakeholders react to Musk's far-right affiliations. The court's decision could either validate the plaintiffs’ claims or reaffirm the separation of corporate identity from individual political beliefs, setting a crucial precedent for future cases involving brand representation and political engagement.