Tesla’s German Plant recently submitted an application to double its production, with the goal of manufacturing 1 million EVs annually. If this plan gets approved, Tesla, the US-based electric vehicle (EV) giant, will surpass Volkswagen’s Wolfsburg factory in Germany, becoming the largest automotive plant in the country.
Situated 30 kilometers southeast of Berlin, the Gigafactory Berlin-Brandenburg stands as the epicenter of this projected metamorphosis. With current production figures resting at 5,000 EVs per week, equivalent to roughly 260,000 vehicles each year, the aspiration to leap to a million vehicles demonstrates an astounding rise in production ambition.
Tesla’s growth strategy does not stop at vehicle production. The company has set its sights on amplifying battery cell production capacity at the same facility, planning to enhance battery storage capacity from 50 gigawatt-hours to an impressive 100 gigawatt-hours annually.
Ever since commencing production back in March 2022, Tesla’s Grünheide-based Gigafactory has been a potent force within Germany’s automotive landscape. During 2023’s first half, Tesla managed to outsell Volkswagen in EV sales, despite not reaching the full potential of its German factory’s output.
Considering the proposed expansion, Brandenburg authorities initiated an online public consultation to solicit public input on the project. This move followed an earlier backlash from locals concerned about the factory’s water usage during the first construction phase.
Adopting a more tactful approach this time, Tesla facilitated discussions with the local community, concentrating on issues such as water use, biodiversity conservation, and the environmental impact linked to the proposed expansion. Tesla holds firm that the factory’s environmental impact is minimal, emphasizing the significant role of EVs in the fight against climate change.
Tesla also intends to enlarge its workforce alongside production capacity. The company currently employs over 10,000 individuals at the Gigafactory, predicting that this figure could expand to 22,500 soon. Tesla’s recruitment drive covers a broad spectrum of skills and experience levels, not limited solely to the automotive field.
As Tesla prepares to amp up production at its German plant, France eagerly eyes the possibility of attracting the EV giant. French President Emmanuel Macron has been engaged in discussions with Tesla CEO Elon Musk, advocating France’s potential as a vibrant hub for sustainable and innovative industries.
On his recent visit to Dunkirk, President Macron reaffirmed France’s pledge to back these industries. His approach includes tax credits for sectors like battery production, EVs, hydrogen, and wind power, along with expedited approvals for industrial projects. Whether these initiatives will manage to lure a Tesla factory onto French soil remains to be seen.
