**Tesla Confronts Unprecedented Boycott Amid Controversy**

Tesla is currently enduring a major boycott, with demonstrations taking place at showrooms and incidents of vandalism targeting its vehicles globally. The uproar arises from CEO Elon Musk’s connections to former President Donald Trump and other extreme right political factions. Furthermore, Musk’s participation in the “Department of Government Efficiency”—a government program associated with widespread layoffs of federal workers and possible cuts to Social Security—has intensified public fury. His contentious use of a so-called “Roman salute” has adversely affected Tesla’s image and sales.

Consequently, Tesla’s electric vehicle sales have dropped by as much as **76% in specific markets**. However, the retreat isn’t limited to potential buyers; current Tesla owners are also seeking to part with their cars.

### Record-Breaking Trade-Ins as Tesla Owners Depart

As per **new information from Edmunds**, an online car inventory platform, March 2025 recorded the highest number of Tesla trade-ins to date. As of March 15, models from 2017 onwards represented **1.4% of all vehicle trade-ins**, marking a notable rise from **0.4% in March 2024**. Analysts anticipate that this figure will continue to grow as additional trade-in data is released.

In February 2025, Tesla cars constituted **1.2% of all trade-ins**, indicating that March has already exceeded the previous month’s numbers. Importantly, these trade-ins do not involve newer Tesla models, suggesting that owners are departing from the brand altogether rather than opting for upgrades.

### Dwindling Interest in New Tesla Purchases

The interest in acquiring new Tesla vehicles has also reached an all-time low. Edmunds reveals that only **1.8% of car shoppers** are contemplating a Tesla, in contrast to a peak of **3.3% in November 2024**. This signifies the lowest level of interest since October 2022, pointing to a significant drop in consumer trust.

### Decrease in Used Tesla Prices

For Tesla owners aiming to sell, the situation is even more daunting. As **previously reported by Mashable**, the prices of used Tesla vehicles have significantly fallen, with an average **10% reduction in resale values**. This decline is particularly sharper than that of other car manufacturers, making it increasingly challenging for owners to sell their vehicles at reasonable prices.

With sales declining, trade-ins surging, and resale values decreasing, Tesla is encountering one of its most difficult times yet. Whether the company can rebound from this extensive backlash remains uncertain.