Companies that stopped buying Teslas in Sweden due to the IF Metall strike are returning.
Despite the ongoing labor dispute, some businesses that once backed the boycott are now allowing employees to choose Tesla vehicles again.
Background on the Strike
The Swedish union IF Metall launched a strike against Tesla Sweden in October 2023. The issue? Tesla does not use a unionized workforce. Other unions joined in, causing supply chain problems for Tesla.
The company faced delays in getting license plates and shipping vehicles. The strike also slowed the rollout of Superchargers.
Several companies that support unions, including Ericsson, Telia, Skanska, and Kone, said they would stop using Teslas in their fleets.
Tesla’s Sales Stay Strong
Despite union pressure, Tesla remains popular in Sweden. The Model Y was the best-selling car in 2023 and held that title again in 2024.
A report from Dagens Arbete says many companies still buy Teslas, and some that left are now coming back.
ABB Sweden Reverses Boycott
ABB Sweden had stopped offering Teslas as company cars during the early part of the conflict. But by summer 2024, it changed course. Employees can now pick Tesla again.
ABB Sweden’s press manager, Christine Gunnarsson, said the company reviewed Tesla’s employment terms. She said Tesla’s conditions are “good enough,” meaning they meet or exceed relevant collective agreements.
“We are closely monitoring the situation, including the labor dispute and discussions about collective agreements, as well as Tesla’s commitment to good employment conditions,”
she added.
The strike continues, but Tesla’s position in the Swedish market remains strong.
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