California has long been a Tesla stronghold. But now its citizens are turning their backs on the car brand in a big way – and Elon Musk is to blame.
Tesla no longer has as strong a presence in America's most electric car-loving state as the brand once did.
According to a new report from automotive site Edmunds, the number of Californians trading in their Teslas increased by nearly 250 percent in March 2025 compared to the same month last year.
The figures show a significant trend, where an increasingly large proportion are choosing to get rid of their electric car – and it's no longer because of the technology, the range or the price. It's about the person behind it.
A growing group of Tesla owners is now distancing themselves from Elon Musk after he got involved in politics and supported President Donald Trump.
The political shift is now having consequences for the car brand's popularity – even in a state like California, where Tesla was previously seen as the progressive, green choice.
"I actually feel dirty when I drive it," an anonymous Tesla owner tells CBS News Los Angeles.
Tesla is no longer a statement – now just one car among many
In March 2024, Tesla accounted for 1.3 percent of all used car sales in California. That figure has now increased to 4.5 percent in March 2025. This development is happening at the same time that interest in buying new Tesla models is decreasing.
Edmunds has measured the lowest interest in Tesla on their platform since October 2022.
Tesla was once seen as the ultimate statement car: an electric car that signaled progress and climate responsibility. But according to Edmunds' chief analyst Jessica Caldwell, that image is changing.
"If you bought a Tesla to stand out and be a FIRST MOVER, that's no longer the car of choice. In Los Angeles, Tesla is everywhere," says Caldwell.
Tesla prices are plummeting – especially on the Cybertruck
Meanwhile, CarGurus reports that the recently launched Tesla Cybertruck has lost 58 percent of its value on the used market. Kelley Blue Book also confirms a decline in new Tesla sales.
Several car owners say that they notice a different atmosphere in traffic – as if the car has become a political symbol that others react to.
"People are more aggressive on the roads. I've GOT the 'finger' more times in the last two months than in the last two years," says an anonymous owner.
If you're considering buying a Tesla, now might be a good time to take action. Used model prices are in free fall. All models are at a low price right now.
The developments in California may be a harbinger of a larger trend.
Because even in the heart of the electric car revolution – and in Tesla's home market – it is no longer a given that Elon Musk and Tesla are the choice of the future.
Previously, we at Boosted.dk wrote about how electric cars – and especially Tesla – are under pressure worldwide due to rising insurance prices. You can read that article here!
