Tesla becomes toxic: owners disguise cars as Honda, Audi and Mazda
Since Elon Musk became politically active under US President Donald Trump, his electric car company Tesla has also become increasingly controversial among consumers. Some of the owners are facing hostility and threats, especially in the US. As reported by the New York Times, Tesla drivers have even started disguising their cars as models of other brands to avoid insults and conflict situations.
Here's What We Know
Perhaps the easiest way to show your disagreement with Musk's actions is to refuse to use a Tesla car. This is what singer Sheryl Crow has done. She recently posted a video on Instagram of her Tesla being towed away. She stated that the money from the sale will go to support American public broadcaster NPR.
Filmmaker Paul Unwin, who lives in London, paid a fine for cancelling his leasing contract early to get rid of his Tesla as soon as possible. He lost £500 for abandoning his Tesla Model Y and switched to a Polestar 3.
However, not everyone is ready to just sell their Tesla. That's why some resort to creative solutions: changing the Tesla emblem to Honda, Mazda, Audi and other brands to avoid judgement or even vandalism. One Tesla owner, family therapist and Democrat Jennifer Trebb, told the New York Times that she bought a bumper sticker for her Tesla with the words, "I bought this before Elon went crazy."
The Courier published on Instagram a selection of Tesla cars whose owners are using similar stickers and "rebranding" to hide their affiliation with a manufacturer increasingly associated with its eccentric owner. It's easy to find such accessories online.
Source: New York Times
