On April 20, 2025, Tesla Europe’s booth at the Elmia Car Show in Sweden drew massive crowds, achieving a new Swedish record with more than 800 test rides in a single day. According to Tom Sjötun, a verified user on X, the event showcased Tesla’s growing influence in the European electric vehicle (EV) market, with attendees eager to experience models like the high-performance Model S Plaid. This milestone underscores Tesla’s dominance in the EV sector, but also raises questions about safety and oversight at such events.

Unprecedented Engagement at Elmia Car Show

The Elmia Car Show, a prominent automotive event in Sweden, became a stage for Tesla to demonstrate its market appeal. Sjötu reported on X that the Tesla booth was “jammed all day long,” reflecting strong public interest in EVs. The 800 test rides—a figure unverified by Tesla but widely circulated on social platforms—highlight the demand for hands-on experiences with electric vehicles, particularly Tesla’s lineup, which includes the Model S Plaid known for its 0-60 mph acceleration in under 2 seconds.

A Concerning Incident Amid the Excitement

While the event was a success for Tesla, Sjötu’s post revealed a troubling incident: “One 18-year-old kid didn’t understand the power of a Model S Plaid and lost his driving license.” This raises critical questions about the safety protocols in place for test rides, especially with high-performance vehicles capable of delivering 1,020 horsepower. The Model S Plaid’s Ludicrous Mode, which enables rapid acceleration, can be overwhelming for inexperienced drivers. Swedish law requires drivers to hold a valid license, and losing one at 18 suggests a possible violation, potentially due to reckless driving during the test.

Market Implications and Regulatory Concerns

Tesla’s ability to attract such crowds signals robust consumer interest in EVs, particularly in Sweden, where EV adoption is accelerating due to government incentives like tax rebates and a ban on new internal combustion engine vehicle sales by 2030. However, the incident with the 18-year-old highlights the need for stricter oversight at public events. High-performance EVs, while thrilling, pose unique risks if not paired with proper driver training or restrictions during test drives.

EVXL’s Take: Balancing Innovation with Responsibility

Tesla’s record-breaking day at Elmia is a testament to its leadership in the EV market, but the incident with the Model S Plaid serves as a cautionary tale. Manufacturers must prioritize safety by implementing measures like mandatory briefings or limiting access to high-performance modes during public test drives. As EVs become more powerful, the industry must balance innovation with responsibility to ensure events like these remain both exciting and safe for all participants.

Photos courtesy of Tom Sjotun