Tesla's UK sales dropped a massive 62% last month, with just 512 cars sold in April — the lowest in over two years. That’s a huge drop from 1,352 in the same month last year, and it comes even as the overall electric car market in the UK grew by more than 8%, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
So, what’s going on?
A lot of the blame is being pointed at Elon Musk. The Tesla boss is facing serious criticism for his involvement in Donald Trump’s new government, where he’s leading a controversial department nicknamed "Doge" — focused on cutting government spending. That includes trying to shut down major aid programs, sparking protests around the world.
Many people are ditching Tesla as a result. In Germany, Tesla sales were also down by 46% in April, with just 885 cars sold — again, the lowest in over two years.
Tesla UK says the main reason for the low April numbers was a lack of stock. The popular Model Y reportedly sold out by the end of March, leaving only a few demo and older cars available. As a result, most of April’s sales were just Model 3s.
Deliveries of the updated Model Y have now started in the UK, but only in small numbers and only for the special Launch Edition. More affordable versions like the standard Rear Wheel Drive and Long Range trims will follow from June, so Tesla expects delivery numbers to stay low for the next few months.
Meanwhile, global headlines haven’t helped. Musk’s links to the Trump administration, including support for new tariffs that have shaken global markets, have sparked a bigger backlash. Some protesters have even vandalised Tesla dealerships and vehicles across Europe.
Until recently, UK buyers were still sticking with Tesla, with year-to-date sales only slightly down. But April’s numbers suggest that could be changing.
Across Europe, it’s even worse — sales in Germany are down over 60% this year. Tesla’s stock price has also taken a hit, falling nearly 30% in 2025 so far, wiping billions from Musk’s fortune.
As Professor David Bailey, an auto expert at Birmingham University, put it: “Musk is toxic for many. Tesla sales are taking a big hit as a result."
