This suggests that a reaction from consumers who dislike Mr Musk’s antics are only one reason for falling sales. An updated Model Y, Tesla’s best-selling vehicle, has just gone on sale. In preparation Tesla ran down inventory of the old model, crimping supply. Customers doubtless held off purchases until the new car was available.

Tesla (TSLA) has lost about half of its market value, or $800 billion, due to the recently market selloff and its own struggling business. But its CEO Elon Musk remains the world’s wealthiest person,

Investors are questioning the tech billionaire's involvement in Trump's administration, while shares in his Tesla electric-car company plummet.It was perhaps the clearest sign yet that Tesla CEO Elon Musk's political maneuvering has backfired.