The Italian Ministry of the Interior has ordered police forces across the country to step up security at Tesla dealerships following a fire in Rome that destroyed 17 electric vehicles. The Guardian reports this development.
According to the Italian Ministry of the Interior, the decision aims to “increase awareness” of potential protests against Tesla. Authorities note that heightened security measures are linked to growing outrage over Elon Musk’s activities in the United States. If necessary, dealership security will be further reinforced.
Italy has 13 Tesla dealerships, most of which are located in Rome. All of them are directly managed by the electric car manufacturer. The security measures were implemented after a fire in the suburbs of Rome destroyed 17 Tesla vehicles. Authorities are considering the possibility of arson, and the Digos anti-terrorism unit is investigating whether anarchist groups were behind the attack. Elon Musk himself called the incident a “terrorist act.”
In recent weeks, Tesla vehicles, dealerships, and charging stations have been repeatedly targeted in acts of vandalism. These incidents are believed to be linked to protests against Elon Musk’s actions.
American media have also reported growing discontent in the U.S. regarding the activities of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which is led by Musk. Previously, Tesla vehicles were set on fire in Berlin. Additionally, in February, the company’s sales plummeted in France and Scandinavian countries.
