Tesla Superchargers and vehicles have become the latest targets of attacks, with a several Supercharger posts and a dozen vehicles set ablaze in separate incidents in the United States and Europe.
Massachusetts Supercharger Fire
In the early hours of March 3, a fire broke out at a Tesla Supercharger station in Littleton, Massachusetts. Firefighters responded to the scene but were unable to immediately extinguish the blaze as the power had to be disconnected before emergency crews could act.
Local authorities, including the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal’s office and the Littleton Police Department, have labeled the incident suspicious. Initial evidence suggests the fire was deliberately set, and investigators are actively seeking leads. A reward of US$5,000 has been offered for information that could help solve the case.
The attack occurred at a busy shopping center. Surveillance footage and forensic evidence from the scene are being reviewed to identify potential suspects. While no injuries were reported, seven charging stations sustained significant damage.
Tesla has publicly commented on the fire, saying that no owners were plugged in at the time, and that the damaged Supercharger posts and wiring will be replaced in less than 48 hours.
Arson Attack on Tesla Store in France
Just hours after the Massachusetts fire, a Tesla dealership near Toulouse, France, was targeted in what authorities are calling a deliberate act of arson. At least twelve Tesla vehicles were set ablaze, with eight of them being completely destroyed. Investigators identified multiple points of origin for the fire, further supporting the theory of an intentional attack.
Local prosecutors have opened an investigation into the incident, citing the destruction of property by “dangerous means.” The estimated damages exceed €700,000 (C$1,060,000/US$735,000). This attack is among the most severe instances of anti-Tesla vandalism in Europe and follows a growing trend of protests and backlash against Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk.
Political Motivations and Growing Anti-Tesla Sentiment
These attacks come at a time of heightened political tensions surrounding Musk and his role in the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under President Donald Trump. In recent weeks have seen protests at Tesla stores and service centers across Canada, the U.S. and Europe, with demonstrators calling for boycotts and targeting Tesla infrastructure.
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Some protesters view Tesla as a symbol of Musk’s political influence and are attempting to stigmatize the brand. While it remains unclear whether the recent arson attacks are directly linked to these protests, the timing suggests that Tesla is facing an increasingly hostile environment in certain regions.
While authorities still search for suspects, the company previously stated that it would pursue legal action against vandals targeting its charging network.
