Elon Musk has recently thanked Donald Trump for standing by him after a cyber attack. Musk explained that Trump called to provide his support and even offered to purchase a new Tesla.

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.