For a vehicle that was supposed to be the future of electric trucking, the Tesla  (NASDAQ:TSLA) Cybertruck is turning into something else entirely: a business liability. At least, that's what Yoni Menaker, owner of Blue Angel Roofing in Atlanta, claims after losing $70,000 in contracts—all because of his choice of wheels.

Last month, Torque News reported that Menaker, who uses his Cybertruck as a company vehicle, shared his frustration in a Tesla owners' group. He wrote, "I have a dilemma. I've started to lose customers because I drive a Cybertruck." He added that customers flat-out told him they were canceling deals because they didn't like the truck. 

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To make things worse, the company's online reviews started taking a hit, with one person writing, "If a roofing company has a Cybertruck, maybe reconsider using them as your roofer." That review even included a photo of Menaker's truck, complete with his business logo plastered on the side. The implication? Owning a Cybertruck doesn't just appear to be a controversial choice — it's now a potential business deal-breaker.

The toughest part of the situation? He loves the Cybertruck—despite the backlash—which makes the dilemma even harder. He shared, "I love this truck, and it's the best truck I've ever had."

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Cybertruck: A Rolling Advertisement Gone Wrong?

Menaker isn't alone. Businesses once excited to use the Cybertruck as a marketing tool are now rethinking their decisions. NBC 10 Boston reported on a medical spa owner in Massachusetts who wrapped his Cybertruck in gold to promote his business—only to face harassment and client cancellations. He even found offensive stickers plastered on the truck, and Tesla refused to accept it as a trade-in.

And it's not just about lost customers. Cybertruck owners are facing real hostility, with reports of vandalism, road rage incidents, and even Tesla charging stations being burned to the ground.

Jalopnik reported one Tesla owner took things a step further, writing a letter to Congress demanding that "harassment and violence against Tesla owners" be recognized as a hate crime. He claims to have been personally targeted, including being run off the road and harassed in his own driveway.

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Tesla's Reputation Crisis

Meanwhile, Tesla itself isn't exactly cruising in the fast lane. Tesla's stock has dropped significantly, losing about 45% of its market value since December, falling from a peak of $1.5 trillion to approximately $845 billion. While global EV sales rose 18% year-over-year in January—up 22% in the U.S. and Canada—Tesla's sales have declined, making it the biggest loser among automakers in recent months. The backlash is spreading worldwide, with declining numbers in Europe and China as well.

Experts suggest that Elon Musk's public statements and political involvement may be influencing buyer sentiment. His unpredictable actions and polarizing views have made Tesla ownership feel like more than just driving an EV—it's now seen by some as a statement, whether owners intend it that way or not.

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The Cybertruck Gamble: Worth It?

For some, the Cybertruck is still an exciting piece of technology and vow to remain loyal. But for others—like Menaker and other Tesla owners facing social and financial backlash—it's starting to feel more like a high-risk investment. 

So, what's the real cost of owning a Cybertruck? Apparently, for some, it's thousands of dollars in lost business, vandalized property, and a whole lot of online hate.

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This article Tesla Cybertruck Owner Says He's Lost $70K In Business Over Backlash — Customers Hate It, But He Loves It: 'The Best Truck I've Ever Had' originally appeared on Benzinga.com

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