On March 5, 2024, Tesla’s assembly plant near Berlin faced a disruption when a suspected arson attack caused a fire in a high-voltage pylon, leading to a power outage.
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This incident halted production at the plant but also affected the electricity supply to surrounding areas, impacting approximately 60,000 residents.
With production halted, Tesla’s plans to expand its European Gigafactory face setbacks. The plant, which currently has a capacity of 500,000 cars per year, plans to double its production to 1 million cars annually.
The interruption in production affects operations but also has economic implications for the region, given the employment opportunities and economic growth associated with the plant.
The arson attack occurred amid ongoing protests against Tesla’s expansion plans, particularly regarding the clearing of nearby forest areas.
Environmental activists, concerned about deforestation and environmental impact, have been staging protests, including occupying forested areas near the plant.
Authorities, including Brandenburg’s top security official and the interior minister, condemned the suspected arson attack, addressing the severity of such acts on critical infrastructure.
Law enforcement agencies are conducting investigations into the arson attack, with initial suspicions pointing towards left-wing extremist groups.
A group named “Volcano Group” claimed responsibility for the attack, citing objections to Tesla’s practices and calling for the destruction of the Gigafactory. The authenticity of the claim is yet to be verified, and further investigation is ongoing.
The incident led to a decline in shares, reflecting concerns among investors about the security and stability of operations in the region.
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The interruption in production also questions about supply chain resilience and its ability to mitigate risks associated with external disruptions. Authorities suspect foul play behind the blaze, with initial investigations pointing towards arson.
The Brandenburg police and state criminal investigation department are actively looking into the matter, examining a claim of responsibility allegedly sent via email by a group called the “Volcano Group,” known for its far-left activism.
The arson attack coincides with ongoing protests against Tesla’s expansion plans, particularly the proposal to clear over 100 hectares of forest for additional logistical spaces. Environmental activists, including groups like Robin Wood and Stop Tesla, have voiced opposition.
Local residents have expressed their dissent through various means, including a nonbinding vote where the majority rejected Tesla’s expansion plans.
Concerns extend beyond environmental issues, with worries about the effects on water supply and the surrounding ecosystem.
The production halt poses challenges for Tesla, especially considering its plans to double the plant’s capacity for battery production and car manufacturing. The disruption affects Tesla’s operations but also questions about the security of critical infrastructure.
Government officials, including Brandenburg Governor Dietmar Woidke, have condemned the attack, labeling it as a form of terrorism.
They address the severe consequences such actions have on both the local population and businesses relying on uninterrupted power supply.
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