The general consensus was clear: To a person, everyone said they love their Tesla. But, whether they like Musk or hate him, they said they are being plagued by social pressure, random targeting and, sometimes, deeply personal ethical battles over keeping their cars.

Elon Musk's political activities and reduced presence at Tesla are stirring dissatisfaction, even within the company, with no plan to reverse falling sales.

Sales are plunging in some of the world’s biggest EV markets, and protesters and vandals are targeting the company’s stores.