A group of French Tesla customers has filed a lawsuit against the American electric vehicle manufacturer, citing concerns that the brand has become a symbol of the extreme right due to the political activities and public statements of its CEO, Elon Musk.
The legal action, brought by around 10 individuals leasing Tesla vehicles in France, was announced Wednesday by the Paris-based law firm GKA. The plaintiffs argue they have suffered “direct and concrete” harm as a result of the growing public association between Tesla vehicles and far-right ideologies.
In a statement signed by lawyers Patrick Klugman and Ivan Terel, the group is seeking to have their lease contracts annulled by the Paris commercial court and to be reimbursed for legal costs.
The plaintiffs allege that Elon Musk’s increasingly political presence, particularly his past support for former U.S. President Donald Trump and Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, has tainted the Tesla brand. Musk has also faced public backlash over gestures interpreted by some as resembling a Nazi salute, claims that have intensified scrutiny over his conduct.
“Because of Elon Musk’s actions… Tesla-branded vehicles have become strong political symbols and now appear to be veritable extreme-right ‘totems’, to the dismay of those who acquired them with the sole aim of possessing an innovative and ecological vehicle,” the GKA statement said.
The law firm argues that this politicization has interfered with customers’ ability to enjoy their vehicles. Most of the plaintiffs are bound by four-year leases with the option to purchase the car at the end, but now say they no longer wish to be associated with the brand.
The case comes as Tesla faces a sharp decline in European sales, with figures nearly halving since the beginning of the year. Analysts have pointed to Musk’s polarizing political views as a contributing factor to the drop.
Reports have also surfaced of vandalism targeting Tesla vehicles in Europe, with some owners saying they’ve been insulted in public. On social media, the vehicles have been mockingly referred to as “swasti-cars.” In response, some drivers have resorted to placing stickers on their cars that read, “I bought this before Elon went crazy.”
“The situation is both unexpected and impossible for French Tesla owners,” lawyer Patrick Klugman told AFP. “Musk’s political positions have interrupted enjoyment” of the vehicles, he added, asserting that Tesla has a duty to ensure “peaceful possession” of the product.
Tesla has not yet responded to requests for comment.
