Tesla has been embroiled in controversy after being removed from the Vancouver International Auto Show just before its opening. The decision to exclude Tesla from the event came amid growing backlash against CEO Elon Musk, who has faced criticism for his support of U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade war with Canada and his comments disparaging the country.
Event organizers cited concerns for the safety of attendees, exhibitors, and staff as the reason for Tesla’s removal. The move has sparked protests and backlash against the electric car company, with some Tesla locations in the U.S. being vandalized and vehicles set on fire.
In response to the controversy, the ruling BC NDP and Premier David Eby have been critical of Tesla and Musk. B.C. has also removed Tesla vehicles from its list of models eligible for provincial subsidies, further escalating tensions between the company and the Canadian government.
The decision to exclude Tesla from the auto show has divided opinions among observers. While some have criticized the move as an embarrassment and a cash grab by event organizers, others have supported the decision as a stand against Musk’s controversial statements and actions.
Many attendees were disappointed by Tesla’s absence from the event, as they had been looking forward to seeing the company’s latest models, including the Cybercab, new Model Y, and Cybertruck. Despite the controversy surrounding Tesla, the company had participated in the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto without incident just a month prior.
The Vancouver Auto Show’s decision to remove Tesla has sparked a debate about free speech, corporate responsibility, and the role of political beliefs in the business world. As the event continues without Tesla’s presence, the controversy surrounding the electric car company is likely to persist in the coming days.