Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently expressed his admiration for Tesla’s products, describing them as “absolutely top-notch.” However, he remains opposed to electric vehicle mandates, citing his preference for traditional engines.
DeSantis Praises Tesla While Rejecting Mandates
In an online exchange, DeSantis credited Tesla’s technology and performance for building a loyal customer base. He stated, “I’ve always opposed EV mandates, rejected the idea that EVs will save the world, and preferred traditional engines for vehicles like the F-150 I used to drive. That said, it’s clear that Tesla’s are absolutely top-notch products. It’s not hard to see how they’ve developed a dedicated following.”
DeSantis was responding to a user who said his family had bought five Model Ys mainly because of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving software, not because they cared about electric cars. This exchange followed another conversation where DeSantis discussed the latest version of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature, which has gained popularity among Tesla enthusiasts.
Tesla Wins Buyers Through Tech Appeal
DeSantis noted that Tesla’s success is “exactly how the market should work,” arguing that vehicles should win over consumers through technology, safety, and performance rather than government rules. He believes that Tesla’s focus on innovation and customer satisfaction has contributed to its loyal customer base.
FSD Growth Supports Tesla Loyalty Push
Tesla’s FSD feature has been a key driver of the company’s growth, with active FSD subscriptions reaching 1.28 million in the first quarter, up 51% from a year earlier. The company has also reclaimed the top spot in U.S. automotive brand loyalty, with 61.1% of owners returning to the brand as of February 2026.
Market Performance
Tesla’s stock has shown a favorable price trend in the short, medium, and long term, according to Benzinga Edge Rankings. The stock closed 2.73% higher at $445.27 on Wednesday, adding another 0.66% in after-market trading. Tesla’s stock is currently within its 52-week trading range of $273.21 to $498.82, up 1.64% year-to-date in 2026.