A group of French Tesla owners filed a class-action lawsuit against Tesla on June 7, 2025, in Paris, alleging the brand’s association with “extreme right” ideologies has damaged their vehicles’ value and social perception.
The suit, led by the consumer group UFC-Que Choisir, claims CEO Elon Musk’s political statements, including his support for Trump’s policies, have tarnished Tesla’s image in France, a market sensitive to far-right connotations. The case, a first for Tesla in Europe, highlights the intersection of corporate branding and political polarization, as EV adoption slows.
The plaintiffs, representing 1,500 owners, argue that Tesla’s resale values dropped 15% since Musk’s 2024 Trump endorsement, citing a Le Monde study. They demand €50 million in damages, alleging Musk’s X posts and tariff advocacy alienated liberal buyers. Tesla France, based in Chambourcy, denied the claims, emphasizing product quality, but showroom visits in Paris fell 20% in Q1 2025. The lawsuit follows EU’s 37% tariffs on Chinese EVs, boosting Tesla’s Model Y sales, yet France’s Green Party called for boycotts. The case, set for hearing in September, could reshape Tesla’s European strategy, as Musk’s influence faces legal scrutiny.
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