A recent attempt by a political action group to demonstrate its disdain for Tesla Inc. and its CEO Elon Musk has backfired, inadvertently showcasing the durability of Tesla’s vehicles. The group, seeking to criticize Musk’s increased role in politics, targeted Tesla with a dramatic stunt involving a Sherman tank and a Tesla Model 3.
The Stunt
The group, Led By Donkeys, filmed a video of a Sherman tank taking on a Tesla Model 3. In the video, a World War II British army veteran, Ken Turner, is heard saying, “We’ve crushed fascism before and we’ll crush it again,” as the tank crushes the Model 3. However, the vehicle’s performance in the face of such extreme force has surprised many, with the doors still appearing to be functional despite being run over by the tank.
The Impact
The stunt has had an unintended consequence: it has highlighted the durability of Tesla’s vehicles. The Model 3’s ability to withstand the weight of a Sherman tank, which can weigh between 66,800 to 84,000 pounds, has impressed many. This has led to comments on social media suggesting that a person inside the Model 3 may have been able to survive a tank running over their car.
Why It Matters
Tesla vehicles have become known for their durability over the years, and this stunt has only reinforced that reputation. With protests against Tesla and Musk increasing, this may not have been the most effective demonstration. Vandalism to Tesla vehicles has also shown that the company’s cars have some of the best cameras, which can help with insurance claims.
Market Reaction
The news has had a positive impact on Tesla’s stock, with the price rising 4.78% to $298.42 on Friday. Despite being down 21.6% year-to-date in 2025, the company’s stock has shown resilience in the face of criticism.
Conclusion
In the battle of tank vs. Tesla, it appears that Tesla has emerged victorious. The stunt, intended to criticize the company and its CEO, has ultimately showcased the durability of Tesla’s vehicles and highlighted the company’s commitment to building high-quality cars. As the company continues to face criticism and protests, it remains to be seen how this will affect its sales and stock price in the long term.