I think he is. As evidence suggests his actions have contributed to the company’s recent decline, though broader market issues also play a role. In the first quarter of 2025, Tesla’s vehicle registrations in California fell by 15.1%, and its share of the state’s EV market dropped from 55.5% to 43.9%, according to Business Insider (2025). Globally, deliveries declined by 13%, the sharpest drop in nearly three years (Reuters, 2025). These losses have been partly linked to Musk’s political activities, including his role in the Trump administration, which sparked consumer backlash and organized boycotts. For example, Tesla’s sales in Germany plummeted by 76.3%, a decline widely attributed to political controversy surrounding Musk (AS, 2025). However, analysts also point to other factors, such as a lack of innovation in Tesla’s product line and increased competition from newer EV brands (Business Insider, 2025). Thus, while Musk’s influence has negatively impacted Tesla’s image and sales, he is not solely responsible for the company’s challenges.
sources : https://www.businessinsider.com/tesla-sales-california-pre-tariff-data-2025-4?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/tesla-set-report-drop-q1-deliveries-weak-demand-musk-backlash-2025-04-02/?utm_source=chatgpt.com