Tesla fandom... toxic!

Recently, there has been a fierce debate within the American electric car community regarding the superiority of Tesla and Ford, with some even receiving death threats from Tesla fans.

Sergio Rodriguez, a 41-year-old veteran who served twice in Iraq as an explosives expert for the American people, is the owner of an Audi A6, a Hyundai Ioniq, and a 2020 Tesla Model X Performance.

Recently, after purchasing a Ford Mustang Mach-E, he posted some content expressing his appreciation for the vehicle and even accepted an interview with local media. Shortly thereafter, he became embroiled in a crazy war of words with Tesla fans, and he reported receiving death threats over his praise for the Mach-E. Ford officials have also been subjected to ruthless online bullying, including Mike Levine, the manager of Ford North America’s product promotion department, who has faced violent cyberbullying due to defending Mach-E owners’ comments online.

Fan economy or fan culture is a marketing model that new generation car companies, led by Tesla, excel at, as their founders often have outstanding personalities and high exposure, providing a natural source of attention. However, if large-scale fan misconduct occurs, it could be an uncontrollable emergency. Many high market value companies also need a good brand image to support them.

In fact, a certain level of competition is good for Tesla, as the electric car market is still in an increment stage, and everyone can work together to expand the market. Although I don’t agree with the logical arguments of foreign Ford fans who say “I support no matter what the Mustang looks like” and “Mach-E is a muscle car,” and I can understand the enthusiasm of Tesla fans, turning this enthusiasm into extremism, and even violence, is absolutely unacceptable.🔗Source of information: Detroit Free Press

This article is a translation by ChatGPT of a Chinese report from 42HOW. If you have any questions about it, please email bd@42how.com.