Kasper J. a Tesla owner in Denmark, has recently voiced his regret and shame over owning a Tesla, stating his intention to switch to a different car brand when it's time for a replacement. This sentiment arises amidst a varied reaction among Danish Tesla owners regarding their vehicles.
While some, like Anja C. Jensen, the chairperson of the Danish union HK, feel no shame in driving their Teslas, Kasper's perspective is different. His discomfort stems primarily from the ongoing conflict between Tesla and some of its mechanics who are seeking to work under a collective bargaining agreement.
Kasper bought his Tesla Model 3 four years ago, drawn to the innovative ideas of Elon Musk, Tesla's CEO. However, his opinion has shifted due to the company's labor disputes. He hasn't yet faced direct comments from family and friends but anticipates that it will happen, reflecting a common Danish belief in the importance of organized labor.
While Kasper isn't planning to sell his Tesla right away, he tells 3F that he is looking into other options for his next vehicle and hopes others will consider doing the same.
The conflict in question involves Tesla's disagreement with 120 of its mechanics, primarily in Sweden, who wish to work under unionized conditions. Musk has publicly denounced this conflict, declaring that no Tesla employee will work under such terms. This stance has led to a strike among Swedish mechanics, a movement that has gained traction in other Nordic countries, including Finland.
In a related development, several pension funds, including PensionDanmark, have divested from Tesla. PensionDanmark alone sold Tesla shares worth around 500 million Danish Kroner($72 million)
This situation highlights the ethical and labor-related dilemmas faced by Tesla owners in Denmark, mirroring a larger debate on workers' rights and corporate ethics in the electric vehicle industry.
What do you think? Do you also feel ashamed of driving a Tesla (if you are a Tesla owner)?
