Norway's Tesla Sales Defy "Tesla Shame" Amidst Global Backlash

Tesla sales in Norway have risen 24% YoY despite backlash against Elon Musk's right-wing politics. The country has a 12-year relationship with Tesla and holds symbolic importance for the brand. Norway was the first country outside of North America to receive Tesla's Model S and helped build the country's EV market.

Tesla Inc. (TSLA) has experienced a significant increase in sales in Norway during the first half of 2025, defying a broader European trend of declining sales. The company reported a 24% year-over-year (YoY) surge in the country, with over 13,039 units sold, compared to 10,498 units in the same period last year [1].

This growth comes despite a widespread backlash against Elon Musk's right-wing political views, which have sparked a consumer backlash against Tesla in several European countries. Sales in Sweden, for instance, fell by over 88%, and in the UK, Tesla delivered 987 units in July, a 60% decline compared to the same period last year [1].

Norway's sales performance stands out as the country has been a key market for Tesla since its introduction of the Model S in 2013. Tesla was the first to establish a Supercharger network outside of North America in Norway, which has helped build a loyal customer base [2]. The Norwegian market represents less than 12% of Tesla's European sales but holds symbolic importance for the brand [2].

The resilience of Tesla's sales in Norway can be attributed to several factors. First, Norway's deep ties with Tesla date back over a decade, with the country helping to build Tesla's brand and EV market. Second, Norway's strong EV infrastructure and supportive government policies have made Tesla's cars attractive to Norwegian consumers [2]. Lastly, Tesla's recent promotional blitz, including zero-interest financing and free supercharging, has contributed to the sales surge [2].

However, the future of Tesla's sales in Norway remains uncertain. While Norway's Tesla owners remain loyal to the brand, a significant portion of them believe Musk's political activism is hurting the brand. A poll by Norstat showed that 40% of Norway's Tesla owners believe Musk's political activism is damaging the brand, though more than half intend to buy another Tesla [2].

In conclusion, Tesla's sales surge in Norway is a testament to the country's long-standing relationship with the brand and its supportive EV policies. However, the future of Tesla's sales in Norway will depend on the company's ability to navigate Musk's political controversies and maintain consumer loyalty.

References:
[1] https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/08/47115413/tesla-sales-surge-24-in-norway-defying-european-decline-elon-musks-dip-in-popularity
[2] https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/tesla-shame-bypasses-norway-sales-jump-despite-musks-politics-2025-08-14/