Tesla Owners Not Happy With Elon Moving to Rivian and Other EVs

In a surprising yet growing trend, many Tesla owners are trading in their vehicles for Rivians. Conversations with Rivian employees at Spaces and Service Centers reveal that an increasing number of Tesla drivers are coming in to test drive Rivian vehicles and, ultimately, place orders. What’s more interesting is their reason for switching—it’s not just about the cars, but about the politics.

For years, Tesla has been a leader in the electric vehicle space, with its innovative designs, powerful software, and most importantly, its vast Supercharger network made owning an EV more practical. However, in recent times, many Tesla customers have become vocal about their dissatisfaction with the company’s CEO, Elon Musk, and his political stances. From his outspoken presence on social media, and controversial remarks, to his increasingly polarized political affiliations, some long-time Tesla fans now feel alienated.

Politics Meets the EV Market

A key theme emerging from interviews with Rivian employees is that many defecting Tesla owners cite their discontent with Musk’s political views as a primary motivator for exploring alternative EV brands. Rivian, with its ethos centered on sustainability, adventure, and environmental stewardship, seems to offer a welcome contrast. For those who prioritize values-driven brands, Rivian’s positioning—focused on innovation without the personal controversies of a figurehead like Musk—has become more appealing.

“It’s common to hear from people that they’ve loved their Tesla but are turned off by Musk’s politics,” said one Rivian Space employee. “It’s not just about the product anymore. They want to support a company that aligns more with their values.”

This shift is amplified by Musk’s leadership style and his unfiltered social media presence, which has led to more divisive conversations surrounding the brand. Rivian, by contrast, remains a quieter player, focused on building out its lineup of rugged, adventure-ready electric trucks and SUVs while staying out of the political spotlight.

Tesla Supercharger Network: No Longer a Sticking Point

Until recently, Tesla’s Supercharger network was a major reason for sticking with the brand. No other EV manufacturer had managed to match the convenience and coverage of Tesla’s charging infrastructure. But that barrier is falling away quickly. With Rivian (and other EVs) now having access to Tesla Superchargers, one of Tesla’s last big selling points has been weakened.

“We’ve had Tesla owners tell us they’ve been waiting for a better charging solution,” said a Rivian service center employee. “Now that Rivians can use Tesla’s Superchargers, it feels like they can make the jump.”

This new cross-brand charging capability is allowing consumers to prioritize the vehicles themselves over the infrastructure.

A Broader EV Transition

The migration from Tesla to Rivian highlights a broader shift in the electric vehicle market. It’s no longer just about performance metrics or charging speeds; it’s about what the brand represents. In Rivian, many ex-Tesla owners see a more future-oriented company—one that’s less about a single figurehead and more about a shared vision of sustainability and adventure.

While Tesla remains an industry titan, especially with its established footprint, Rivian’s appeal is growing. Whether it’s because of the fresh design and rugged capabilities of the R1T and R1S or a desire to distance themselves from the political noise surrounding Elon Musk, Rivian is capitalizing on the moment.

And as more Tesla owners walk into Rivian Spaces, test drive an R1T or R1S, and place orders, it’s clear that Rivian is carving out its unique place in the EV market, one that’s grounded in values as much as it is in cutting-edge technology.