The Biden White House explained the snub by noting that the automakers that had been invited were the nation’s three largest employers of the United Auto Workers, a powerful union, and it suggested that the administration would find other ways to partner Tesla. (Union animus towards electric vehicles later became a problem for Mr Biden.)

Trump told reporters he would write a check for the car, which retails for roughly $80,000, and leave it at the White House so his staff can drive it. The president also said he hopes his purchase will boost Tesla,