Canadian auto show boots Tesla in the name of 'safety' after it refuses to 'voluntarily withdraw'

Elon Musk's car company Tesla is banned from Canada's Vancouver International Auto Show, but it has nothing to do with his politics, role in the U.S. government or fear of becoming a target of vandalism following widespread attacks against Tesla dealers and individual owners, according to organizers.

Tesla was given "multiple opportunities to voluntarily withdraw" after the organizers asked the company to leave but did not, according to their statement to Canadian Auto Dealer.

"The Vancouver Auto Show’s primary concern is the safety of attendees, exhibitors, and staff. This decision will ensure all attendees can be solely focused on enjoying the many positive elements of the event."

The decision was so sudden, after "conversations with Tesla throughout the day Tuesday," that Tesla had already set up its booth and had to take it down before the show started, the magazine reported. 

Attorney General Pam Bondi has called the attacks "domestic terrorism" and said the Justice Department has already charged defendants, "including in cases that involve charges with five-year mandatory minimum sentences." Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., and other GOP lawmakers had asked DOJ to investigate.

While Executive Director Eric Nicholl said there weren't any specific threats against the auto show, he acknowledged protests against Tesla that were escalating across British Columbia and Canada. "If we see elements that are going on in the public, what level of risk does that pose to our team?" he said.

Canadian protesters are reportedly incensed not just by Musk's role in the U.S. government but his questioning of Canadian sovereignty.

British Columbia cut off Tesla products from its EV charger rebate program earlier this month, with Premier David Eby flatly telling the CBC "it's just for Tesla and it’s because of Elon Musk."