This suggests that a reaction from consumers who dislike Mr Musk’s antics are only one reason for falling sales. An updated Model Y, Tesla’s best-selling vehicle, has just gone on sale. In preparation Tesla ran down inventory of the old model, crimping supply. Customers doubtless held off purchases until the new car was available.

A new CNN poll found that 53% of Americans have an unfavorable opinion of Elon Musk, the tech mogul who is leading Trump's DOGE initiative.