I live in Norway, Tesla's biggest market. Last month it was the top selling car in the country. I think we are estimated to buy almost half of their production. Half. Norway isn't the biggest market for anything except goat cheese (nobody else can stand it, we love it), but Tesla is now depending on our politicians for half of their sales.
Europeans and americans differ a lot when it comes to cars in general. My country differs insanely from everyone, as all cars are taxed at extremely high rates, and especially so high performance cars. But not electric cars. No taxes. So to norwegians, Teslas are cheap. It costs just slightly more than normal, average family car around here. If this changes, sales will tank instantly. Norwegians arent buying an electric car, they are buying an affordable high performance car. The only one available.
And I still would not buy one. I know nothing about its reliability, second hand value, battery life, technology advances in batteries etc. The thing could be worth half its sticker price in a year. And this is a story we know here, as Nissan Leafs have fallen by almost 50 % in price in 3 years. And thats the price of a new car from the dealer. People who bought these new 3 years ago have lost 75 % or more.
I do appreciate people taking all the risk and paying all their hard earned money so that someone can develop more sustainable transportation technologies. I just don't want to do it.