Tesla Faces Setback with 13% Drop in Sales as Competition, Backlash, and Aging Lineup Weigh on Buyers

Tesla is facing a significant challenge as its sales dropped 13% in the first quarter of 2025, signaling a tough road ahead for Elon Musk’s electric vehicle giant. This marks another indication that the once high-flying company is struggling to capture the attention of buyers in an increasingly competitive market.

The company reported global deliveries of 336,681 vehicles in the first quarter, down from 387,000 during the same period last year. Despite offering steep discounts, zero financing, and other incentives, Tesla couldn’t escape the impact of growing competition and an aging lineup. Many consumers appear to be holding off on purchasing the popular Model Y, likely waiting for an updated version, while others are being swayed by improved models from competitors, especially China’s BYD.

Tesla’s once-dominant position in the electric vehicle (EV) market is being challenged by newer, more affordable EV options. This shift has taken a toll, particularly in Europe, where Tesla’s sales declines have been steeper.

A growing backlash against Elon Musk’s political involvement has also played a role in Tesla’s struggles. Musk’s embrace of right-wing politics and his position in the Trump administration have sparked protests at Tesla showrooms across the U.S. and Europe. In fact, several Tesla vehicles have been vandalized or set on fire, while protests featuring slogans like “I bought this before Elon went crazy” have become more common.

The tension around Musk’s political stances is not only hurting Tesla’s public image but also affecting its bottom line. Wall Street analyst Dan Ives from Wedbush described the first-quarter sales results as a “disaster on every metric,” noting that the brand’s crisis is clearly having a negative impact.

Tesla’s stock has taken a hit, plunging roughly 50% since December when it hit a record high. The drop came as expectations of regulatory relief under the Trump administration evaporated, replaced by concerns that the backlash against Musk’s political views and actions would seriously harm the company.

Investors have voiced frustration over Musk’s dual roles, with many claiming that his work in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is distracting him from the crucial task of leading Tesla. This week, New York City’s comptroller, responsible for overseeing pension funds that hold Tesla stock, called for a lawsuit against Musk, accusing him of “driving Tesla off a financial cliff.”

Interestingly, Tesla stock saw a rebound of more than 5% after reports that Musk might refocus on his Tesla responsibilities. Politico even cited sources suggesting that Musk could step down from his role at DOGE in the coming weeks, further boosting investor optimism.

Tesla’s challenges have been particularly pronounced in Europe. Many European customers, especially in Germany, have been put off by Musk’s public support for far-right political parties and his controversial behavior during a Trump inauguration rally. Tesla’s sales in Europe have suffered as a result, with some consumers choosing to turn to other brands that don’t carry the same political baggage.

Tesla continues to face pressure as it works to maintain its leadership in the EV market. Analysts are forecasting that Tesla’s first-quarter earnings will see a modest 7% year-over-year increase, but the overall picture remains bleak. Tesla is expected to report earnings of 48 cents per share later this month, but the company’s ability to sustain long-term growth amid fierce competition is uncertain.

Tesla’s sales for the quarter were dominated by its more affordable Model 3 and Model Y, with fewer than 13,000 of its pricier models, including the Model S, Model X, and Cybertruck, sold in that period.

As the electric vehicle market grows, Tesla must overcome a series of challenges, from political controversies and internal leadership struggles to fierce competition and an aging lineup of vehicles. The question remains: Can Tesla rebound and recapture the momentum that made it a household name, or will the company struggle to keep pace with a rapidly evolving market? Investors and consumers alike will be watching closely in the coming months as the company works through its challenges.