Has Tesla’s Brand Taken a Hit? What EV Owners Think in 2025
We visited the EV Show 2025 and stopped by the Tesla stand to find out firsthand: Has Tesla lost some of its shine?
Over the course of the event, we spoke to a range of EV owners and potential buyers — and their responses revealed a growing divide.
The Product vs. The Politics
For many, the product still stands strong. Drivers praised Tesla’s vehicles for their performance, technology, and value for money. One Model 3 owner said,
“I understand the politics but I don’t let that influence my decisions. I really enjoy the car.”
Others agreed: the quality of the car — and Tesla’s lead in EV tech — outweighs the controversy surrounding Elon Musk.
Highlights from Tesla supporters:
Strong loyalty to the product regardless of who runs the company
Belief that politics should stay separate from purchase decisions
Recognition of Tesla’s superior engineering, from cars to Powerwalls
Appreciation for Tesla’s role in pushing EV adoption globally
One passionate Tesla fan even remarked,
“I take my bald head off to him. He’s an absolute legend.”
But Not Everyone Agrees
While many loved the cars, the brand image has undeniably taken a hit for others. Several visitors shared that they either:
Felt embarrassed to drive a Tesla now
Would hesitate to buy another Tesla
Were actively considering alternative EV brands like Polestar, BYD, or European options
One EV owner summed up the feeling:
“I love driving the car… but I don’t particularly want to be associated with the brand.”
Some even reported that resale value concerns were now part of the conversation, fueled by public perception rather than product flaws.
Key concerns from critics:
Moral and ethical discomfort with Elon Musk’s political views
Brand loyalty weakening, particularly among younger and socially conscious buyers
A growing sense that newer EV brands offer more “progressive” alternatives
Interestingly, there were even reports that Polestar in the U.S. was offering incentives for Tesla owners to switch brands — a sign that the battle for EV hearts and minds is heating up.
So Where Does That Leave Tesla?
In 2025, it appears Tesla sits at a crossroads:
The product remains strong, and many still consider it the best EV on the market.
The brand, however, faces challenges, particularly among buyers who link companies to personal values and politics.
As one visitor put it:
“If you’re going to get your head caught up in politics, you can get confused easily. The product is excellent.”
In the end, buyers now fall into two broad camps:
Those who separate the product from the politics — and continue to drive Teslas proudly
Those who let brand perception guide their buying choices — and are seeking alternatives
And as for the sticker seen on a Tesla at the show?
“It’s okay. I bought this before I knew what an idiot he was.”
It seems even some Tesla drivers are grappling with the tension between loving their cars and feeling uncomfortable about the company behind them.
