In a surprising backlash against Tesla, a series of vandalism incidents targeting the company’s vehicles and dealerships have unfolded in Canada. The unrest has been fueled by ongoing trade disputes and critical remarks from Elon Musk regarding Canada.
Tesla Under Fire: Canadian Public Launches Physical Attacks Amid Tensions
Tesla Under Fire: Canadian Public Launches Physical Attacks Amid Tensions
Tensions between Canada and the U.S. escalate as Canadian citizens vandalize Tesla properties in response to the Trump administration’s policies.
In Hamilton, Ontario, over 80 Tesla vehicles were reported to have been vandalized, with tires punctured and bodies scratched, as local authorities revealed on Thursday. This marks the latest manifestation of growing discontent towards the company founded by Musk, who has repeatedly expressed derogatory views about Canada through social media. These incidents come amidst broader tensions rooted in a trade war ignited by President Trump's imposition of tariffs on Canadian goods, resulting in retaliatory measures from Canada.
The sentiment against Tesla has taken on a physical dimension, with even more symbolic acts of protest occurring in urban centers. In Montreal, two members from the environmental advocacy group Last Generation Canada were arrested for spray painting the exterior of a Tesla dealership in protest of Musk's influence, which they claim endangers democratic values and exacerbates climate change disinformation.
The automotive community is feeling the impact as well, with a recent auto show in Vancouver opting to exclude Tesla from its lineup. Eric Nicholl, the show’s executive director, indicated that the decision aims to ensure a focus on the positive aspects of the event without distraction from such divisive figures.
Calls for accountability have been escalating as provincial leaders take action against Musk-related enterprises. Ontario has canceled a $70 million contract with Starlink, Musk's satellite internet venture, while public petitions seeking to strip Musk of his Canadian citizenship have garnered over 376,000 signatures.
This swell of anti-Tesla sentiment showcases the complex relationship between Canada and its southern neighbor, as well as the repercussions of political rhetoric bleeding into corporate landscapes. Public figures like hockey legend Wayne Gretzky have also drawn scrutiny for their ties to figures like Trump and Musk, further complicating the reaction within Canadian society.
As tensions continue to rise, the fallout from this conflict could have lasting effects on Tesla's operations in Canada and its relationship with its northern neighbor.
Vjosa Isai is a reporter and researcher for The Times, based in Toronto. She covers diverse news stories across Canada.
The sentiment against Tesla has taken on a physical dimension, with even more symbolic acts of protest occurring in urban centers. In Montreal, two members from the environmental advocacy group Last Generation Canada were arrested for spray painting the exterior of a Tesla dealership in protest of Musk's influence, which they claim endangers democratic values and exacerbates climate change disinformation.
The automotive community is feeling the impact as well, with a recent auto show in Vancouver opting to exclude Tesla from its lineup. Eric Nicholl, the show’s executive director, indicated that the decision aims to ensure a focus on the positive aspects of the event without distraction from such divisive figures.
Calls for accountability have been escalating as provincial leaders take action against Musk-related enterprises. Ontario has canceled a $70 million contract with Starlink, Musk's satellite internet venture, while public petitions seeking to strip Musk of his Canadian citizenship have garnered over 376,000 signatures.
This swell of anti-Tesla sentiment showcases the complex relationship between Canada and its southern neighbor, as well as the repercussions of political rhetoric bleeding into corporate landscapes. Public figures like hockey legend Wayne Gretzky have also drawn scrutiny for their ties to figures like Trump and Musk, further complicating the reaction within Canadian society.
As tensions continue to rise, the fallout from this conflict could have lasting effects on Tesla's operations in Canada and its relationship with its northern neighbor.
Vjosa Isai is a reporter and researcher for The Times, based in Toronto. She covers diverse news stories across Canada.
