Tesla’s electric vehicle sales in Europe have surged in recent months despite persistent criticism of CEO Elon Musk, signaling a notable rebound in the region. After experiencing significant declines a year ago—partly attributed to Musk’s outspoken support for right-wing politicians in Europe and his association with the former U.S. administration—Tesla’s market performance has strengthened alongside the overall growth of the continent’s electric vehicle (EV) sector.

According to data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, Tesla’s sales from January to May increased by 77% compared with the same period in the previous year. In May alone, Tesla sold approximately 22,000 vehicles in Europe, surpassing sales figures for established automakers such as Ford, Nissan, and Honda, even when their gasoline and diesel models are included. This uptick coincides with electric vehicles accounting for more than 20% of new car purchases across Europe.

Industry analysts credit Tesla’s competitive pricing strategy for its resurgence. The company has lowered prices on its entry-level models to attract buyers reluctant to pay premiums for electric cars. In some European markets, the Tesla Model Y SUV can be leased for under 300 euros (roughly $340) per month, making it an appealing alternative to both conventional gasoline and diesel vehicles and lower-cost Chinese imports.

“Once you go down the pricing scale, people pay less attention to ethics or morality,” said Matthias Schmidt, an independent analyst focused on EV sales in Berlin. “Tesla’s product has become so appealing from a price perspective, it’s almost too good to refuse.”

Some Tesla owners interviewed expressed mixed feelings about Musk but affirmed the value of Tesla’s technology and charging infrastructure. Hansjoerg Quilitzsch, a retired IBM employee in southwestern Germany who affixed a bumper sticker joking about Musk’s political controversies to his Model Y, said he plans to continue leasing Tesla vehicles due to their advanced technology and broad charging network, which he uses for trips between Germany and Spain.

Despite the European sales rebound, Tesla’s performance in the United States remains soft. Following the expiration of federal tax incentives for electric vehicles, which had effectively reduced consumer purchase prices by $7,500, U.S. sales declined by an estimated 20% in the second quarter compared with a year earlier, according to Cox Automotive. Tesla is expected to release its global sales figures for the quarter shortly.

Musk’s public persona continues to be divisive in Europe. Recent remarks he made on social media, including unfounded claims linking a U.S. foreign aid agency to the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, have drawn criticism and are at odds with the views of many environmentally conscious European consumers. Nevertheless, some Tesla owners say their appreciation for the vehicles outweighs their reservations about Musk.

Several buyers interviewed acknowledged their concerns about Musk but also highlighted that other automakers also have complex histories or political associations. One Tesla owner in Latvia noted a preference to support a Western brand over Chinese manufacturers despite disagreeing with Musk’s views.

Tesla’s resurgence in Europe illustrates a nuanced consumer landscape where pricing, technology, and infrastructure increasingly shape purchasing decisions, even as leadership controversies remain a point of contention.