In the heart of Winnipeg, Tesla owners are feeling the pressure, with many contemplating drastic measures to protect their prized vehicles. Steve Garland, who recently transitioned from a hybrid Toyota Prius to a fully electric Tesla Model Y, reveals that he and his wife have thought about removing their Tesla's brand logos or even covering it with bumper stickers to deter potential vandals.

The unrest stems from a broader backlash against Tesla and its owner, Elon Musk, who has become a divisive figure, especially following his close ties to political leaders and controversial statements. Garland admits that the safety of his family is his top priority, leading him to drive his Tesla alone lately. "If the situation worsens, we might have to sell our car. No vehicle is worth risking our safety," he expressed.

Recent incidents have heightened these worries. Tesla showrooms, charging stations, and cars across North America have been targets of vandalism. In Hamilton, Ontario, a spate of vandalism left approximately 80 Teslas marred, while a Tesla showcase was notably omitted from the Vancouver International Auto Show due to safety hazards.

Local Winnipeg Tesla owners aren’t immune. One Model S owner, named John, discovered disturbing graffiti on his car during a visit to a local Taco Bell, but brushed it off with humor, noting that it could use a wash anyway. Still, he remarked that while he will not sell his vehicle, several family members have decided to divest from Tesla amid the ongoing political controversy surrounding Musk.

However, not all Tesla owners report negative experiences. Members of the Manitoba Tesla Club reflect varied sentiments; some claim they face no hostility at all, enjoying the unique features and tech of their vehicles. One Cybertruck owner shared that their long wait to receive their vehicle starting from a 2019 pre-order was entirely unrelated to political sentiments.

Critics of Musk argue that his growing influence in U.S. politics, particularly under the Trump administration, has negatively impacted Tesla's reputation and market performance. Reports have shown Tesla's stock dropping over 50% from its peak, alongside significant declines in vehicle resale values and new vehicle sales. Just recently, the company issued a recall for over 46,000 Cybertrucks due to issues with parts.

Trevor Nott, owner of Winnipeg’s Nott Autocorp, disclosed that the car's market prices are tanking—especially for newer models—and he has ceased purchasing Tesla vehicles altogether. The market trend reflects a shift in consumer confidence, affected heavily by Musk's political images.

The sentiment is echoed across the border in Canada, where the government is distancing itself from Tesla. The recent Manitoba budget proposed excluding Teslas and Chinese-made electric cars from the province's EV rebate program, showcasing the political ramifications of Musk's actions on both sides of the border.

John expressed his feelings on the backlash faced by Tesla owners: “Musk's actions don’t reflect the typical Canadian Tesla owner.” An anonymous Cybertruck driver shared their experiences with hostility, including threats and even rocks thrown at their vehicle, but remains resolute in keeping the innovative truck.

Notably, some entrepreneurs are cashing in on this discontent, creating merchandise such as stickers mocking the uproar surrounding Musk. Garland, still uncertain about such purchases, contemplates others' creative attempts to navigate their discontent.

As tensions around Tesla ownership continue to mount, the overarching conclusion remains: amidst political discord and public outcry, loyalty to the brand and its innovative technology is still strong among many Canadian drivers. Whether Tesla owners act on their anxieties or embrace the chaos, the conversation surrounding electric vehicles and corporate responsibility is far from over.