Welcome Spring, Burn a Tesla: A Coordinated Call for Violence
Executive Summary
A radical manifesto calling for arson and sabotage against Tesla has surfaced online, urging activists to attack the company’s vehicles and infrastructure as part of a broader fight against “techno-industrial slavery” and political oppression. This incitement coincides with a surge in Tesla-related vandalism, arson, and shootings across the U.S. and Europe. As Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s influence grows within the Trump administration, the company has become a prime target for left-wing and anarchist groups. Violent protests have escalated to coordinated arson attacks, prompting concerns over domestic extremism and potential federal intervention.
Analysis
The manifesto, published on an anarchist website, frames Tesla as a key enforcer of technological oppression and surveillance, describing its vehicles as symbols of corporate and political authoritarianism. It explicitly calls for the destruction of Tesla cars and infrastructure, providing tactical recommendations for avoiding detection, including methods to evade surveillance cameras and forensic identification.
While the manifesto is couched in anti-capitalist and environmental rhetoric, its primary objective appears to be leveraging Tesla’s high-profile status to galvanize a violent movement against corporate and government institutions. The language of direct action suggests premeditated coordination rather than isolated acts of vandalism.
Escalation of Violence
Over the past several weeks, Tesla-related attacks have escalated significantly, aligning with the manifesto’s ideological framework:
Arson: Tesla showrooms, factories, and charging stations have been torched in multiple locations, including Toulouse, France, where twelve cars were set on fire, and Berlin, where arson disrupted a Tesla plant’s operations. In the U.S., fires at charging stations in Massachusetts and vehicle lots in Seattle have caused significant damage.
Vandalism & Graffiti: Multiple Tesla dealerships have been defaced with messages such as “No Musk” and Nazi imagery, while a series of targeted attacks in Colorado involved spray-painted slurs and destruction of property.
Shooting Attacks: A Tesla dealership in Oregon was attacked with gunfire, shattering windows and damaging several vehicles.
Failed Self-Immolation: A masked individual in South Carolina attempted to set fire to Tesla charging stations but accidentally ignited himself before fleeing the scene.
Political and Social Context
The targeting of Tesla coincides with Elon Musk’s growing political influence under the Trump administration. As head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Musk has spearheaded sweeping federal job cuts, drawing backlash from left-wing activists who see him as complicit in a broader shift toward corporate authoritarianism. His increasing alignment with right-wing figures, including controversial appearances at political events, has further fueled hostility toward Tesla.
President Trump has responded to the attacks by threatening to classify Tesla vandals as domestic terrorists, though legal limitations may prevent such a designation. Federal agencies, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), have launched investigations into the wave of Tesla-related violence.
Tesla Takedown Movement
Beyond violent acts, a parallel movement called Tesla Takedown has emerged, advocating for a financial boycott of Tesla. Organized protests outside dealerships and calls to divest from Tesla stock have gained traction, amplifying the broader anti-Tesla sentiment. While the group disavows violence, its alignment with anti-Musk activism contributes to the overall climate of unrest.
Potential Ramifications
Increased Federal Scrutiny: If the attacks persist, the Biden administration and law enforcement agencies may escalate countermeasures, including surveillance of suspected groups and expanded criminal penalties.
Economic Impact: Tesla’s stock has already suffered significant losses, and sustained unrest could further destabilize investor confidence.
Expansion of Target List: If successful, the campaign against Tesla could serve as a blueprint for similar attacks on other high-profile corporations and tech executives.
