India, March 6 -- Authorities in France are investigating a suspected arson attack that left a dozen Tesla vehicles in ruins at a dealership in Plaisance-du-Touch, a suburb of Toulouse. The fire, which broke out late Sunday night, caused an estimated 700,000 euros in damages, reported local news website La Depeche.

It also raised questions about possible motives ranging from sabotage to political activism at a time when there is growing anti-Tesla sentiment in Europe, fueled by CEO Elon Musk's involvement in the US government.

Firefighters arrived at the scene around 4 am on Monday and managed to contain the blaze to the vehicles. Eight cars were completely destroyed, while four others suffered significant damage. The Tesla dealership i...