Tesla’s French registrations plummeted 67% year-over-year in May, with only 721 vehicles sold, according to data from France’s Automobile Manufacturers Association (PFA). This marks a 47.23% cumulative sales decline for Tesla in France since January, significantly steeper than the overall French auto market’s 8.25% contraction.
European Market Struggles Widen
The French sales slump follows April’s dramatic declines across Europe, where Tesla registrations dropped over 50% in multiple markets. Sweden saw an 80.7% plunge, while Netherlands and Denmark recorded decreases of 73.8% and 67.2% respectively. Despite a 3% gain in Italy, Tesla’s EU EV market share has shrunk from 19.7% to 8.8% this year.
Industry analysts attribute the downturn to intensifying European EV competition, shifting consumer preferences, and potential seasonal factors. The broader French auto market declined 12.3% in May, with Stellantis and Renault groups posting 10.12% and 6.96% drops respectively.
Trump’s “Made in America” Ultimatum
On May 30, former President Donald Trump declared that U.S. automakers including Tesla must manufacture complete vehicles and all components domestically. “They must produce entire cars in America within the next year,” Trump stated, criticizing previous reliance on foreign production in Canada, Mexico, and Europe.
Musk Denies NYT Drug Use Allegations
Tesla CEO Elon Musk vehemently denied New York Times reports claiming he abused ketamine during the 2024 presidential campaign. “I want to be clear that I don’t do drugs! The NYT is making things up,” Musk posted on social media on May 31. He acknowledged limited past prescription ketamine use for depression but stated he discontinued the treatment.
At a joint press conference, Trump defended Musk as “an amazing person” who has accomplished “incredible things,” while claiming no knowledge of any drug use. The controversy emerged as Musk concluded his four-month tenure as head of the Government Efficiency Office.
Transition to Advisory Role
During an official departure ceremony, Trump presented Musk with a ceremonial gold key and confirmed the billionaire would continue advising the administration. “This isn’t the end of Government Efficiency, but the real beginning,” Musk stated, pledging ongoing consultation. Trump noted most office staff would remain while policies become permanent.
The dual challenges of market pressures and political scrutiny present a complex landscape for Tesla as it navigates softening Euro
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