Tesla reports 1.1% sales drop for 2024, first annual decline in at least 9 years
Tesla’s first annual sales decline in nearly a decade is prompting debate over whether the setback stems more from maturing EV demand or from Elon Musk’s increasingly polarizing political activity and personal behavior. Many commenters say they like their Teslas as products but now avoid buying or recommending them for ethical or reputational reasons, while others point to practical issues with EVs such as charging access, cold-weather performance, depreciation, and road-trip logistics. At the same time, Chinese manufacturers like BYD are rapidly gaining global market share with cheaper EVs and plug-in hybrids, raising questions about Tesla’s long-term competitive position and sky-high valuation.
Overall sentiment toward Tesla and Musk
- Thread is highly polarized.
- Many say they will not buy another Tesla (or ever buy one) primarily because of the CEO’s behavior and politics, despite liking the cars.
- Others report their Teslas are the best cars they’ve owned and separate the product from the CEO.
- Several note that Tesla’s brand has shifted from “aspirational green tech” to “toxic / embarrassing” in some social circles.
EV ownership experience & practicality
- Cold-weather performance is a recurring concern: reduced range, energy spent heating batteries and cabin; some plug-in hybrids also struggle in very low temps.
- Home charging is seen as near-essential; renters and apartment dwellers describe this as a major barrier.
- Some owners say EVs are excellent primary cars and even preferred for road trips; others say they’re best as second cars due to range and charging hassle.
- UI criticism: reliance on touchscreens for basic functions, removal of stalks, and information overload are seen by some as unsafe or unpleasant.
Charging infrastructure and maintenance
- Tesla’s Supercharger network is widely praised as a major advantage over other EVs.
- Non-Tesla fast-charging experiences are described as unreliable (broken stations, long waits).
- Disagreement on maintenance: some report very low running costs and long battery life; others worry about tire wear, battery degradation, and eventual replacement.
Politics, ethics, and boycotts
- Strong discussion of the CEO’s public political alignment with right-wing and far-right figures, anti-trans positions, and inflammatory online behavior.
- Some argue this makes the company un-buyable regardless of product quality; others see this as overreaction or prefer “knowing where a billionaire stands” to hidden influence.
- Broader debate about the political power of billionaires and the rarity of such overt partisanship from a major tech figure.
Market dynamics, competition, and valuation
- Several note Tesla’s first annual sales decline after years of rapid growth and suggest U.S./EU EV demand for Tesla’s price tier may be saturated.
- Chinese manufacturers, especially BYD, are highlighted as rapidly growing competitors with large NEV volumes (majority PHEV) and strong BEV sales; tariffs are seen as key to limiting U.S. impact.
- Tesla’s market cap is widely viewed as disconnected from its status as roughly the 13th-largest automaker by revenue.
- Used EV prices and depreciation are debated: some see poor resale as evidence of weak demand; others argue tax credits and vehicle mix distort comparisons.