Tesla’s Berlin Plant Shuts Down After Arson Attack on Power Pylon
Tesla’s manufacturing plant in Berlin, Germany, faced disruption after an arson attack targeted a high-voltage electricity pylon, leading to a halt in production. The assault, claimed by a group identifying as the “Volcano Group,” was detailed in a letter published on the alternative German media platform Kontrapolis. While police in Brandenburg believe the letter’s authenticity, Tesla has not yet issued a response.
In the letter, the activists expressed their motive, citing environmental concerns and criticizing Tesla’s impact on local resources and communities. They accused the factory of environmental damage and excessive water consumption, particularly affecting groundwater and drinking water sources.
Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, responded to the incident on social media platform X, denouncing the attack as counterproductive to environmental goals and highlighting its potential risks to basic supplies for nearby residents. The disruption in production prompted a downturn in Tesla’s stock prices, reflecting investor concerns over the incident’s implications.
The attack not only affected Tesla’s operations but also disrupted the power supply to neighboring villages, prompting condemnation from regional authorities and the initiation of a criminal investigation. Brandenburg’s interior minister vowed severe consequences if the initial findings confirmed sabotage of the electricity infrastructure.
The Berlin plant, Tesla’s sole manufacturing site in Europe, has faced challenges in its expansion plans, including opposition from local residents regarding forest clearance for expansion. Environmental activists have been occupying parts of the forest, although groups like Robin Wood have denied involvement in the power outage incident.
Earlier this year, Tesla announced a temporary pause in production due to delays in component delivery caused by attacks on container ships in the Red Sea. Despite setbacks, Tesla remains committed to expanding its European operations, aiming to significantly increase production capacity at the Berlin plant in the future.
