Three years after its grand opening in Grünheide, near Berlin, Tesla faces a marked decline in car sales and rising protests against CEO Elon Musk. Despite these challenges, plant manager André Thierig remains optimistic, noting that production has expanded to serve 37 markets directly from the Gigafactory, which has created over 11,000 jobs since producing the Model Y in 2022.
The gigafactory’s starting salary is notably above the regional average, enhancing its status as a top industrial employer in Brandenburg. While the factory employs innovative processes, including a wastewater treatment plant recycling nearly all process water, public sentiment is shifting against Musk due to his divisive remarks and political affiliations.
Tesla’s sales have plummeted, dropping by 76.3 percent in newly registered vehicles in February compared to the previous year. Although the Model Y remains a bestseller globally, industry expert Ferdinand Dudenhöffer highlights a lack of innovative designs and escalating prices as factors behind the sales slump.
Protests have grown darker, with incidents such as arson against Teslas and calls from groups like “Tesla den Hahn abdrehen” for water conservation. Critics remain vocal about the environmental impact, especially regarding concerns over water resources and a planned freight depot that threatens local ecosystems.
Internal matters also brew, with the IG Metall trade union expressing concerns over employee treatment and health, advocating for better working conditions. Tesla’s informal polls suggest a significant majority of its employees are satisfied, yet conflict with the union persists regarding working conditions and healthcare policies.
Tesla’s Berlin Gigafactory, opened three years ago, is now experiencing declining sales alongside increasing protests against CEO Elon Musk. Plant manager André Thierig reflects on production growth and job creation, yet confronts public discontent and internal labour disputes. Key issues include environmental concerns, a significant drop in new registrations, and demands for improved working conditions from the workforce.
In summary, Tesla’s Gigafactory in Berlin has faced notable challenges in its three-year journey, including declining sales, heightened public protests, and internal labour disputes. Despite creating jobs and improving production processes, escalating criticisms of leadership, environmental concerns, and a lack of innovation may pose hurdles for future success. The company must navigate these turbulent waters while addressing employee satisfaction and environmental responsibility to sustain its foothold in the German market.
Original Source: www.bluewin.ch
