March 20 (Reuters) – Tesla (TSLA.O) was removed from the Vancouver International Auto Show in Canada due to safety concerns, the event’s organizers confirmed on Thursday.
Eric Nicholl, executive director of the auto show, stated, “The Vancouver International Auto Show has removed Tesla as a participant after the automaker was given multiple chances to withdraw voluntarily.”
Tesla has not yet responded to a Reuters request for comment.
The safety concerns come amid protests in the U.S. targeting Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Musk has been leading efforts to reduce the size of the federal government through the Department of Government Efficiency.
“The primary concern of the Vancouver Auto Show is the safety of attendees, exhibitors, and staff,” Nicholl said.
In a related development, Toronto announced on Monday that it would stop offering financial incentives for Tesla vehicles used as taxis or ride-share vehicles. This decision was linked to growing trade tensions between Canada and the U.S. The mayor of Toronto told Reuters that the move was aimed at Musk, a close advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump, who has pushed for Canada’s annexation and imposed tariffs on Canadian products, causing frustration among Canadians.
Additionally, Tesla recalled nearly all of its Cybertrucks in the U.S. on Thursday to address a potential issue with an exterior panel that could detach while driving.
