Introduction

A shocking survey has revealed that a staggering 94% of Germans are not considering purchasing a Tesla vehicle. This alarming statistic comes from a poll of over 100,000 respondents and points to serious concerns about the automaker’s future in one of Europe’s most crucial markets.

Sales Decline

Tesla is facing a significant slump in Germany, with sales plummeting 41% in 2024 compared to the previous year, even as the overall electric vehicle (EV) market in the country surged by 27%. The decline in Tesla's sales took a turn for the worse, with a jaw-dropping 70% drop reported in early 2025 compared to an already disappointing 2024. What is causing this dramatic fall?

Contributing Factors

Multiple factors are contributing to Tesla's troubles in Germany, including fierce competition from other electric vehicle manufacturers and changes to the popular Model Y. However, industry experts are increasingly pointing to the negative impact of Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s actions on the company's reputation in Germany. Musk’s involvement in local elections and apparent support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has drawn heavy criticism, creating a rift between Tesla and German consumers.

Public Sentiment

Musk is currently under scrutiny in Europe for his political interference, and his recent controversial remarks further exacerbated the situation, causing many German consumers to distance themselves from the brand. With only about 20% of the electorate currently supporting AfD, it’s clear this is not a demographic Tesla can rely on for future sales.

Survey Findings

In addition to signaling a general discontent with Musk’s politics, the T-Online survey found that only 3% of Germans would even consider buying a Tesla. The overwhelming rejection from consumers sends a loud and clear message: Tesla's popularity in Germany is rapidly dwindling.

Market Dynamics

While some investors are banking on a revamped Model Y to help revive the company's fortunes, the survey results suggest that broader issues are at play, with significant declines in Model 3 sales as well. With a vibrant electric vehicle market burgeoning in Germany, many consumers are likely to consider other options instead of Tesla.

Conclusion

Observers are noting that the current sentiment mirrors Tesla’s earlier days around 2015 when the company was not widely recognized or respected. Now, it seems that despite widespread awareness of the brand, consumers are turned off. As Tesla grapples with its plummeting sales and mounting discontent, the brand faces an uphill battle to regain trust and market share in Germany. Some believe that without a strategic overhaul, Tesla may even need to scale back its operations in one of the world's leading EV markets. The future is uncertain, but one thing is clear: Germans are turning their backs on Tesla in unprecedented numbers.