Tesla is under siege. From Molotov cocktails in showrooms to Cybertrucks going up in flames, attacks on Elon Musk’s electric car company are escalating across the US — and even overseas.
Showrooms, charging stations, and even privately owned Teslas have been targeted. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported so far.
Experts say the attacks have intensified since Donald Trump gave Musk control over the new Department of Government Efficiency. While some protests have been peaceful, the violent targeting of Tesla is keeping law enforcement busy.
ADVERTISEMENT
Tesla Becoming a Political Target
Under Trump’s presidency, his properties were often the focus of protests. Now, Tesla seems to be filling that role.
“Tesla is an easy target,” said sociologist Randy Blazak, who studies political violence. “They’re out on the streets, in our neighbourhoods — it’s hard to avoid them.”
Anti-Musk sentiment has fuelled dozens of protests at Tesla dealerships and factories across North America and Europe. Some Tesla owners, including a US senator, have even vowed to sell their cars in protest.
ADVERTISEMENT
Molotov Cocktails and Shootings
Authorities have linked several high-profile attacks to political motives.
In Colorado, a woman was charged after allegedly throwing Molotov cocktails at Tesla dealerships and spray-painting “Nazi cars” on a building.
Meanwhile, in South Carolina, federal agents arrested a man for setting fire to Tesla charging stations near Charleston. The suspect had writings critical of the government and Musk’s department in his wallet and bedroom.
ADVERTISEMENT
A note found by investigators mentioned “sending a message” based on these beliefs.
Wave of Violence in the Pacific Northwest
Some of the most severe attacks have happened in left-leaning cities like Portland and Seattle.
In Oregon, a man is facing charges for throwing Molotov cocktails at a Tesla store and later shooting out the windows. In nearby Tigard, over a dozen bullets were fired at a Tesla showroom — the second attack in a week.
Four Cybertrucks were also torched at a Tesla lot in Seattle. Just days later, a man was spotted pouring petrol on a Tesla Model S and setting it alight on a Seattle street.
Las Vegas Attack Raises Terrorism Fears
The violence reached a boiling point in Las Vegas when several Teslas were set on fire outside a service centre.
The word “RESIST” was spray-painted across the front doors. FBI agent Spencer Evans said the attack had “hallmarks” of political violence.
“Was this terrorism? Was it something else? It certainly looks like it,” Evans said.
Musk Speaks Out
Musk broke his silence in an interview with Sean Hannity.
“It’s shocking to see this level of hatred and violence,” Musk said. “Democrats were supposed to be the party of empathy — yet they’re firebombing dealerships and shooting up cars.”
