The 2025 Axios Harris Poll reveals a staggering decline in Tesla’s brand reputation, plummeting from eighth place in 2021 to 95th place this year with a score of 61.3.
This marks a significant deterioration in the public’s perception of the electric vehicle giant, largely attributed to the controversial actions and statements of CEO Elon Musk.
The Axios Harris Poll, a collaboration between Axios and Harris, assesses the reputation of America’s most visible companies by surveying thousands of Americans.
Public Sentiment Shifts Against Tesla as CEO’s Actions Impact Brand Loyalty
Tesla’s reputation has soured sharply since it reached its peak ranking of eighth in 2021, dropping to 63rd in 2024, and suffering an alarming drop to 95th in 2025. This decline places Tesla among the lowest-ranked companies in the country, surpassed only by brands such as Wells Fargo, Meta, and Twitter.
Public sentiment has turned against Musk, who is seen as the primary factor behind the brand’s downfall. Recent decisions and controversial political stances have tarnished not only Tesla’s image but also that of the wider electric vehicle industry, raising concerns among employees and customers alike.
Insights from the survey indicate a growing discontent with Musk’s leadership, impacting consumer loyalty despite Tesla’s high-quality products.
As Musk continues to draw criticism for his behavior and management style, his actions are now seen as detrimental to the brand’s potential. Surveys show that Tesla is ranked lower than many other automakers, with competitors managing to maintain a better public image. Musk’s political advocacy and erratic decisions continue to alienate customers, marking a troubling trajectory for Tesla as it navigates an increasingly competitive market.
With the company’s reputation sinking, it remains to be seen what impact this will have on Tesla’s future performance and its ability to attract and retain customers in the electric vehicle landscape.