Tesla told the Trump administration that its ongoing tariff war could make it more expensive for the electric car company to build vehicles in the U.S. “Trade actions should not (and need not) conflict with objectives to further increase and support domestic manufacturing,

Elon Musk-led Tesla sent a letter to the Trump administration warning that the trade war is exposing Tesla and other exporters to retaliatory tariffs that could hurt manufacturers.

The CEO’s politics have eroded the brand’s appeal among some buyers of electric vehicles, surveys indicate. “I used to idolize the guy,” said one Tesla driver who wants to get out of his lease.

Tesla is set to unveil a more affordable vehicle in the first half of 2025. Details are scarce, but new reports say it could take after the Model Y.

Tesla's reported letter comes after unpredictable Trump trade policy moves that have unsettled businesses and markets.