Legal Troubles and Declining Sales: Tesla’s Struggles in France
Tesla is currently grappling with multiple legal challenges and declining sales in France, following the controversial political actions of CEO Elon Musk. Recent reports indicate that ten Tesla owners are collectively suing the company, citing Musk’s involvement in U.S. politics as a factor contributing to the diminished value of their vehicles. They claim that the political environment fostered by Musk has also led to increased acts of vandalism against their cars, reports 24brussels.
In May, Tesla experienced a staggering 67 percent drop in sales in France, compared to the same month in 2024, according to data from the French PFA registrar. This significant decline reflects a troubling trend for the automaker in a market once deemed highly desirable. The company’s difficulties are exacerbated by ongoing scrutiny concerning its autonomous driving capabilities.
This is not the first instance Tesla has faced legal challenges regarding its vehicles’ autonomous functions. In 2020, Germany’s competition watchdog initiated legal action against the company, alleging that Tesla’s marketing exaggerated the capabilities of its self-driving features. Although Tesla successfully appealed this case, it continues to advertise its cars as autonomous driving solutions in Germany.
In the United States, Tesla has encountered numerous wrongful death lawsuits connected to incidents involving its Autopilot feature, which enables vehicles to steer, brake, and accelerate autonomously. These ongoing legal issues have raised concerns about the safety of the technology and the company’s accountability.
The combination of declining sales, increasing legal scrutiny, and a politically charged atmosphere poses significant challenges for Tesla as it attempts to navigate an evolving automotive landscape in France and beyond. The company’s strategy moving forward will be crucial in reclaiming its position in an increasingly competitive market.
