Tesla drivers are now the 'most disliked' on the road, new poll reveals

Tesla drivers are now the 'most disliked' on the road, new poll reveals

  • 20.03.2025 07:15
  • thisismoney.co.uk
  • Keywords: Negative Public Perception, Brand Image

A new poll reveals Tesla drivers are now the most disliked on the road, with three in five people ranking them as such. Elon Musk's controversial behavior and political ties have deterred potential buyers, despite recent increases in UK registrations of Tesla models like the Model 3 and Model Y.

Tesla ReportsTSLAsentiment_dissatisfiedBYDDYsentiment_satisfiedF/PDsentiment_neutralVLKAFsentiment_neutralPSNYsentiment_neutralNOKBFsentiment_neutral
open_in_newOriginal article

Estimated market influence

Tesla

Tesla

Negativesentiment_dissatisfied
Analyst rating: Neutral

The article discusses how Tesla drivers are becoming increasingly disliked due to Elon Musk's controversial behavior and public statements. This has led to a decline in consumer interest and negative stereotypes about Tesla owners.

Big Motoring World

Neutralsentiment_neutral
Analyst rating: N/A

Conducted the survey on car brand perceptions, highlighting Tesla's negative image but not taking an explicit stance on Tesla itself.

Elon Musk

Negativesentiment_dissatisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Musk's public behavior and political support have alienated potential buyers, impacting Tesla's brand reputation.

Carmoola

Neutralsentiment_neutral
Analyst rating: N/A

Provided additional data on consumer sentiment towards Tesla, contributing to the understanding of Tesla's declining popularity.

Leasing Options

Neutralsentiment_neutral
Analyst rating: N/A

Reported a significant drop in leasing inquiries for Teslas compared to competitors like BYD and Ford.

BYD

BYD

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: Strong buy

Experienced a surge in enquiries, indicating growing interest and competition against Tesla.

Ford

Neutralsentiment_neutral
Analyst rating: —

Showed moderate growth in EV inquiries, contributing to the competitive landscape but not directly impacting Tesla's reputation.

Volkswagen

Volkswagen

Neutralsentiment_neutral
Analyst rating: Buy

Appeared as a competitor with significant growth in EV interest, affecting Tesla's market position.

Polestar

Polestar

Neutralsentiment_neutral
Analyst rating: N/A

Emerging as a strong alternative to Tesla in the EV market.

Kia

Kia

Neutralsentiment_neutral
Analyst rating: Buy

Provided another option in the EV space, contributing to the competitive pressure on Tesla.

Jaecoo

Neutralsentiment_neutral
Analyst rating: N/A

An emerging brand offering alternatives to Tesla, impacting its market position.

Omoda

Neutralsentiment_neutral
Analyst rating: N/A

Another new player in the EV market, adding competition for Tesla.

Context

Analysis of Business Insights and Market Implications

Key Findings:

  • Tesla Drivers Most Disliked: 60% of respondents ranked Tesla drivers as either their second or least favorite. Only 3% found Tesla drivers likable.
  • Elon Musk's Influence:
    • 70% of British adults are deterred from buying a Tesla due to Elon Musk's controversial public behavior.
    • Musk is seen as the "most powerful unelected person in the world" and has strong political ties, including backing Donald Trump's campaign with $250 million.
  • Consumer Sentiment:
    • 73% of Tesla drivers feel ashamed to be seen in their vehicles.
    • The most common words used to describe Tesla drivers were "extravagant" (21%) and more derogatory terms.

Market Trends:

  • Tesla's Declining Popularity:
    • Leasing enquiries for Teslas dropped by 11% year-on-year, while overall EV leasing requests surged by 509%.
    • In February 2025, Tesla Model 3 and Model Y registrations increased by 20%, but this growth is overshadowed by declining interest over time.
  • Competitive Landscape:
    • Competitors like BYD (+793%), Ford (+156%), and Volkswagen (+127%) are gaining traction in the EV market.
    • Tesla now ranks 26th out of 34 manufacturers in terms of leasing enquiry growth.

Business Impact:

  • Brand Image Crisis:
    • Tesla's brand image is being tarnished due to Elon Musk's polarizing behavior, leading to alienation of potential buyers.
    • Once the undisputed leader in the EV space, Tesla now faces serious competition on price, range, and features.
  • Strategic Considerations:
    • Competitors are offering strong alternatives that match or surpass Tesla in key areas, making it harder for Tesla to retain its market share.

Long-Term Effects:

  • Consumer Perception Shift: The decline in consumer interest for Teslas is accelerating, with enquiries dropping by 87% from February 2024 to February 2025.
  • Regulatory and Political Risks: Musk's controversial public stances could lead to regulatory scrutiny or policy changes affecting Tesla's operations.

Consumer Perceptions:

  • Stereotypes About Drivers:
    • Tesla drivers were stereotyped as balding, well-dressed white males (21%).
    • Other brands had varying stereotypes: Ford (sensible), BMW (arrogant), Volkswagen (middle-aged women), etc.
  • Brand Image and Stereotypes: The study highlights how brand history and image shape consumer perceptions, which can be difficult to change over time.

Strategic Recommendations:

  • Rebranding Needed: Tesla must address its brand image crisis to regain consumer trust and appeal.
  • Competitive Innovation: Invest in innovation to maintain a competitive edge against rapidly growing EV brands like BYD and Volkswagen.