“Far-right totems”: Tesla targeted by an unprecedented collective complaint in France, against a background of radicalization assumed by Elon Musk
An example of a self-adhesive against Elon Musk. © HSM
Originally, they chose Tesla for its electrical performance, its futuristic design, and a certain idea of progress. But these French drivers, now engaged in legal action, claim that they can no longer run without discomfort. The reason? The image that the brand conveys, more and more associated with the extreme right because of the political radicalization of its boss, Elon Musk.
French customers continue Tesla: they denounce a turn to the extreme right
They are ten, but their approach could school. Represented by the GKA cabinet, these customers assign Tesla before the Paris Commercial Court. Their request is clear: to break the long -term rental contracts which bind them to the American manufacturer. Their grievance? No longer being able to “peacefully enjoy” of their vehicles, now perceived as “extreme right totems”.
Tesla brand vehicles have become strong political symbols and now appear as real “extreme right totems”.
What these complainants express is growing discomfort. While they thought they were buying a “green” vehicle, at the cutting edge of technology, they find themselves driving what some people nicknamed a “Swasti-Car” on the networks. Difficult to assume when the public image of the brand collapses, between the support of Elon Musk to Donald Trump – who are crumbling, of course -, but also to AFD in Germany, or even ambiguous gestures interpreted as Nazi salutes.
This situation is both unpredictable and unlivable for Tesla’s French holders.
This trial intervenes in A sudden fall context of Tesla sales in Europe – Almost 50 % since the start of the year. More and more motorists are turning their backs on the brand, put off by the politicization of Musk’s speech. Some owners go so far as to stick stickers “I bought before Elon farted” on their bumper.
Mr. Musk’s political positions interrupted the normal enjoyment of the vehicle[…]We believe that it must guarantee the peaceful possession of the thing sold.
If Tesla remains silent in the face of this collective action, the complainants’ message is clear: their vehicle should never become an ideological standard bearer. The trial does not question the car itself, but the symbolic weight it has acquired in spite of themselves. And this fight may well inaugurate a new form of dispute, at the intersection of consumer law and brand image.
Want to save even more? Discover Our promo codes Selected for you.
