Tesla is once again facing CEO risks. As Elon Musk expressed support for Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, a major European company has decided to stop purchasing Tesla’s electric vehicles (EVs).
On the 7th, CNBC reported that Rossmann, a company headquartered in Germany with pharmacy chains across Europe, announced it would no longer buy Tesla’s EVs due to Musk’s support for Trump.
In a statement, Rossmann pointed out that Musk’s support for Trump starkly contrasts Tesla’s mission of contributing to environmental protection through the production of EVs. They pointed out that Trump, whom Musk supports, has even claimed that climate change is a hoax.
Rossmann operates more than 4,700 stores across Europe and employs approximately 62,000 people. Of the company’s 800 vehicles, 34 are Teslas. The company acquires about 180 new vehicles annually.
CNBC noted that Rossmann’s announcement indicates Musk’s political stance is beginning to have a tangible impact on Tesla’s electric vehicle sales.
Last month, Musk officially expressed his support for Trump. He revealed that he created a super PAC called America PAC to donate funds.
Trump announced the previous day that he would have a “significant interview” with Musk on the 12th.
CNBC cited poll results from Morning Consult and Pew Research, indicating that while Republican voters have a favorable view of Musk, this support does not translate into EV purchases. CNBC added that Musk’s reputation is declining among left-leaning voters, who are more likely to purchase electric vehicles.
Meanwhile, Tesla’s automotive sales in the second quarter of this year decreased by 7% compared to the same period last year.
