March 17, 2025
BY ESHERU KWEKU
Are The Wheels Coming Off Tesla Amid Backlash And Protests?
London, March 17, 2025 – Tesla, the electric vehicle giant, and its CEO Elon Musk are facing unprecedented challenges as a wave of backlash and protests sweep across the globe. The latest in a series of controversies involves a high-profile campaign by the activist group Led By Donkeys, which has launched a massive anti-Tesla marketing campaign, including paid billboard ads around London.
The lastest ad campaign against Tesla, tweeted by @ByDonkeys
Thousands of people are ditching Tesla. Here’s one of them with a message you can see from space.
— Led By Donkeys (@ByDonkeys) March 17, 2025
Location: Black Rock Sands, Wales, UK
Led By Donkeys is 100% funded by small donations. pic.twitter.com/G2AT9XWduI
The campaign by Led By Donkeys has gained significant traction, with the group accusing Musk of using his influence to support far-right ideologies and political figures. The group has projected scathing anti-Musk imagery onto Tesla's European headquarters in Amsterdam and the Berlin gigafactory, highlighting Musk's controversial political endorsements.
In London, the campaign has taken a more visible form, with billboards displaying messages that criticize Musk's political activities and call for a boycott of Tesla vehicles. These ads have sparked public debates and drawn attention to the broader issues surrounding Musk's influence on public discourse and politics.
Protests have erupted in several major cities, with demonstrators gathering outside Tesla showrooms and offices. In London, protesters have staged sit-ins and marches, demanding greater accountability from Musk and Tesla. The protests have been marked by creative and impactful displays, such as mock trials of Musk and symbolic "funerals" for the environment, drawing significant media attention.
The backlash is not limited to public protests. A recent Morgan Stanley survey revealed that 85% of investors believe Musk's political activities are negatively impacting Tesla's business fundamentals. Concerns over declining vehicle deliveries and weakening demand have also been highlighted, with 59% of investors expecting a year-over-year drop in Tesla's 2025 deliveries.
The survey results have sent shockwaves through the market, raising questions about Tesla's ability to maintain its dominance in the electric vehicle sector. With rising competition from companies like BYD, Rivian, and Ford, Tesla's market position appears increasingly precarious.
Beyond the political storm, Tesla faces several operational challenges. The company's aging product lineup and the lack of a new, affordable model have turned potential buyers towards competitors. Additionally, the public's waning brand loyalty, fueled by Musk's controversial statements and actions, poses a significant threat to Tesla's future growth.
The protests and campaigns have also led to instances of vandalism and public scorn directed at Tesla owners, further complicating the company's efforts to maintain a positive brand image.
As Tesla navigates these turbulent times, the company must address both the internal and external factors contributing to its current challenges. Strengthening its product lineup, improving customer relations, and distancing itself from politically charged controversies may be crucial steps in regaining investor confidence and public trust.
Elon Musk, known for his resilience and innovative spirit, faces one of the toughest tests of his career. Whether Tesla can weather this storm and emerge stronger remains to be seen, but the coming months will undoubtedly be critical for the company's future.
