According to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association, Tesla’s sales in Europe and the U.K. have experienced a significant decline of nearly 50% as of April. The company sold 7,261 vehicles in the European Union, European Free Trade Association, and U.K., representing a 49% year-over-year decrease.

This substantial drop in sales is notable, especially considering the recent launch of Tesla’s new Model Y vehicle, which typically would attract more consumers. A closer examination of car sales in the region reveals that Tesla’s competitors have not experienced a similar decline, suggesting that CEO Elon Musk’s political activities and association with U.S. President Donald Trump may have had a significant impact on the brand’s reputation, as seen in the negative backlash against Tesla.

Tesla’s sales have been struggling globally for several months. The company recorded 336,681 deliveries, its worst quarterly performance in over two years, as reported in its latest quarterly report. This decline coincided with Musk’s involvement in leading DOGE, an advisory body that implemented significant layoffs and attempted to eliminate various agencies and programs, sparking widespread criticism and making it challenging for him to manage his businesses. As a result, Musk has announced plans to refocus his attention on Tesla.

In April, new car registrations in the EU, U.K., and EFTA countries such as Sweden and Norway fell by 0.3 percent to 1,077,186 units year-over-year, with gas and diesel vehicles experiencing the largest declines.

While electric vehicle (EV) sales still account for a smaller share of the overall market, they continue to exhibit growth. EV sales increased by 27.8% to 184,685 vehicles in April compared to the same month in 2024. Hybrid vehicles, meanwhile, saw the most significant jump with a 31% increase in sales.

Recent figures released by market research firm Jato Dynamics show that Chinese manufacturers like BYD are gaining traction in Europe despite facing EU tariffs. Registrations of EVs made by Chinese automakers in April rose by 59% year on year, reaching nearly 15,300 units, according to Jato Dynamics.