Tesla's brand is the focus of a backlash against CEO Elon Musk for his political views and involvement with President Trump's DOGE.

In one sign that Tesla appears to be losing ground to cut-price Chinese brands, sales at China’s SAIC zoomed up 54% in April, according to the ACEA figures. SAIC owns a slew of auto brands including U.K.-based MG, known for its low-cost EV models.

The electric car maker sold 7,261 cars in April, down 49% year on year, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association.

Tesla's European sales crashed 49% as Chinese competitors surge ahead. Why Elon's controversial image hurts sales.

Comprehensive new data for all 31 countries across the continent shows EV volumes rose 28% while Tesla's sales collapsed 49% last month.