Tesla Arson Attacks in Germany Linked to Growing Backlash Over Musk’s Political Ties
The global backlash against Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA) appears to be escalating, with four Tesla vehicles set ablaze in Berlin, Germany, on Friday. The suspected arson attacks come amid increasing protests and vandalism targeting the company following Elon Musk’s appointment as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in President Donald Trump’s administration.
Tesla Vehicles Torched in Berlin Neighborhoods
German authorities reported that the fires occurred in the early hours of Friday in the Plänterwald and Steglitz neighborhoods. The first incident was reported just before 2 a.m. local time, followed by three more shortly after. While no injuries were reported, the four Tesla vehicles were completely destroyed, and several nearby cars sustained damage. Law enforcement officials are investigating the incidents and have not ruled out political motives behind the attacks.
Escalating Anti-Tesla Sentiment Across the Globe
This latest attack adds to a growing trend of targeted hostility toward Tesla and its CEO. In the United States, a Tesla dealership in Oregon was riddled with gunfire for the second time in a week, causing extensive damage to vehicles and showroom windows. The first attack occurred on March 6, followed by another on March 13. Authorities have yet to identify suspects or motives, but tensions surrounding Musk’s political influence continue to mount.
Meanwhile, in New York City, hundreds of demonstrators recently gathered outside a Tesla showroom to protest Musk’s role in the federal government. His leadership of DOGE has been widely criticized for its aggressive cost-cutting measures, including mass layoffs of federal employees. Since Musk’s appointment, the department has overseen the termination of tens of thousands of government workers, with more expected in the coming months.
Political Controversy Fueling Anti-Tesla Actions?
The arson attacks and protests reflect the intensifying controversy surrounding Musk’s involvement in U.S. government operations. His appointment by President Trump has sparked widespread debate, with critics accusing him of leveraging his influence to reshape federal policies in favor of corporate interests. Supporters, on the other hand, argue that his leadership is bringing much-needed efficiency to government operations.
As law enforcement agencies in both the U.S. and Germany investigate these incidents, Tesla remains at the center of a political and social firestorm. The company has yet to release an official statement regarding the recent attacks, but the ongoing wave of anti-Tesla sentiment is unlikely to dissipate anytime soon.
