Norway's Tesla obsession defies Europe's Musk backlash

Core Insights - Tesla has experienced significant sales growth in Norway, with a 54% year-on-year increase in new car sales in June, driven by a 115.3% rise in registrations for the Model Y [2][3] - The Model Y's popularity is attributed to its competitive pricing and features that meet local consumer demands, such as ample luggage space and all-wheel drive [4][3] - Despite success in Norway, Tesla's sales have declined in other European markets, with a 60% drop in Germany and overall sales falling for five consecutive months in Europe [5][6] Company Performance - Tesla's new car registrations in Norway surged by 213% in May, reinforcing its leading position in the electric vehicle market [2] - In southern Europe, Tesla saw a 61% increase in new car registrations in Spain and around a 7% increase in Portugal [4] Market Challenges - Tesla's brand value has been negatively impacted by CEO Elon Musk's political activities, including support for Donald Trump's campaign, leading to protests at dealerships across Europe [6][7] - A survey indicated that 43% of Norwegian EV drivers would avoid purchasing a Tesla due to political reasons, highlighting potential reputational risks for the company [7][8] Industry Context - Norway is recognized as a leader in sustainable transportation, aiming to eliminate gasoline and diesel cars from its new car market through supportive policies [9][10] - The Norwegian government offers various incentives for EV adoption, including VAT exemptions and investments in charging infrastructure, which have significantly contributed to the growth of electric vehicles in the country [11][10]