While sales of electric cars in Germany declined in 2024, the market remains Tesla optimistic. The Gigafactory in Grünheide, Brandenburg, is proving to be a beacon of the automotive industry. Despite production stoppages and protests, the company is positive about the future and is planning further growth - albeit without expansion plans for the time being.
Looking back on a turbulent year in Grünheide
Tesla has overcome a number of challenges at its only European production facility in Grünheide in 2024. These included:
- Production downtimedue to the tense situation in the Red Sea and an attack on the power supply.
- Protests: Environmental activists stormed the Tesla-site, and there was criticism of the plant's location in a water protection area.
- Contracts and criticismDiscussions about water consumption and higher limits for waste water led to controversy with local authorities.
Despite these disruptions Tesla, to end the year on a positive note. Plant manager André Thierig emphasized: "We would certainly have liked to have had one or two fewer disruptions, but we will still end the year on a positive note overall."
Tesla Despite the e-car crisis in Germany
The German market for electric cars is in crisis. According to the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) sales of battery-powered cars fell by 22% in November compared to the previous year. Tesla was nevertheless able to hold its own and supplies vehicles from Grünheide in 37 markets - mainly in Europe, but also in the Middle East and Taiwan.
The most important figures at a glance:
- Production in Grünheidevehicles for 37 markets, with around 11,000 employees.
- November figures Germany: Tesla achieved fifth place with 2,200 newly registered vehicles.
- Positive development: Tesla sees potential for a turnaround 2025 in the German market.
Working conditions and growth
Tesla continues to rely on a flexible personnel policy. Temporary workers were taken on for an indefinite period, and there was a salary increase above the standard pay scale of 4 %. However, there is no collective wage agreement, which IG Metall criticizes.
Plans for the expansion of the Gigafactory are currently on hold. Tesla however, is keeping the option open to further increase production without additional permits. Battery production will remain in the USA for the time being, where subsidies are more economical. Thierig is calling on the German government to a reliable economic policyto make cell production in Germany more attractive.
Environmental criticism and water consumption
The location of the Gigafactory in the Water protection area continues to cause discussion. Tesla points out that the water consumption in Grünheide below the industry average and has been reduced through optimization. Nevertheless, there is criticism from environmentalists and local residents. A new water contract was concluded, but not without controversy. Tesla The Board of Directors criticized changes to the draft contract, but considers these to be acceptable.
Conclusion: An optimistic view of the future
Despite the challenges in Germany Tesla remains confident. Grünheide is establishing itself as an important location for the European market and beyond. With innovative approaches, flexible production and the prospect of a market turnaround, Grünheide could Tesla further strengthen its position as a leading supplier of electric vehicles.
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