Tesla GigaBerlin: First Model Y Deliveries Mark a New Era
Written on
Chapter 1: A Long-Awaited Milestone
After nearly two years of anticipation, the first “Made in Germany” Model Ys were officially delivered today at Tesla's new Berlin-Brandenburg Gigafactory. This momentous occasion was celebrated widely across various media platforms.
This statement will create an indented block of text, typically used for quoting other texts.
Section 1.1: A Prolonged Wait
The journey to this milestone has been lengthy. Following the establishment of Tesla's factory in Fremont, the next factory to rise was in Shanghai, which saw its first deliveries within just ten months. Expectations for the Berlin Gigafactory were similarly optimistic, but the reality proved different. It took approximately two years from construction to the initial deliveries, but the day has finally arrived.
Elon Musk was seen interacting with the first customers receiving their new Model Ys, showcasing his signature enthusiasm.
Subsection 1.1.1: What's New in the Model Y?
The Model Y is familiar to many, having been produced in Fremont and Shanghai. This popular SUV shares similarities with the Model 3 and is central to Tesla's strategy, as both the Berlin and Austin Gigafactories are set to start production with this model.
The latest version features several updates from 2022, including advanced matrix headlights, a chrome delete, an upgraded infotainment system, a 12V lithium-ion battery, and, later this year, a new structural battery pack filled with 4680 cells as the production facility becomes fully operational.
Additionally, the vehicles are now being assembled with single front and rear castings, thanks to Tesla's acquisition of massive presses from Idra, which is expected to significantly reduce costs and optimize the factory's footprint.
A notable new feature of the delivered cars is a trunk cover designed to conceal cargo from external view—a request from customers that pleasantly surprised many.
Section 1.2: Insights from Elon Musk
During the delivery event, Elon Musk shared several key points:
- The Full Self-Driving (FSD) beta version may become available in Europe later this year.
- Tesla anticipates an increase in output utilizing two different battery technologies: LFP for standard-range vehicles and nickel-based batteries for long-range options.
- Speculation surrounding new product launches in Berlin is rife, with expectations for Megapacks.
- Musk expressed optimism regarding battery production with manganese cathodes, stating, "We are growing 70-80% and perhaps even faster in the future."
While Musk remains confident about FSD, recent delays in both the US and Canada have led to a cautious approach regarding timelines.
Chapter 2: The Gigafactory's Impressive Scale
This video showcases the excitement surrounding the first deliveries at Giga Berlin, including a memorable moment with a dancing Elon Musk.
The Gigafactory in Berlin is a remarkable facility capable of producing approximately 500,000 vehicles each year. It is the smallest of Tesla's vehicle production buildings, measuring 77% the size of the Fremont Factory, 61% of Giga Texas, and 60% of Giga Shanghai.
Later this year, a separate building currently under construction will begin the production of 4680 cells. For these initial deliveries, a new structural pack utilizing 2170 batteries has been developed for the Model Y.
Elon Musk has previously stated that the factory aims to produce up to 5,000 units weekly by the end of 2021, with expectations to ramp up to 10,000 units weekly by the end of 2023. This surge in production could position the Model Y as the best-selling car globally.
According to industry analyst @TroyTeslike, there are plans to add Model 3 production next year, along with potential construction of a new twin building in the near future.
This launch signifies Tesla's entry into the European market, a critical region for electric vehicles, especially as Tesla's cars have already become best-sellers, albeit imported from China.
The inauguration of the Gigafactory may have contributed to a notable rise in Tesla's stock, which increased by almost 8% to $993.98, pushing its market valuation back over one trillion dollars.
As production ramps up, the coming months promise to be filled with exciting developments for Tesla and the electric vehicle sector.
If you found this information intriguing, you may also be interested in:
Is Tesla Underestimating GigaBerlin's Production Capacity?
Comments from Elon Musk and insights from the investor call suggest that production capabilities for the newly launched factory may be intentionally downplayed...
This video delves into the momentous occasion of Tesla Gigafactory Berlin delivering its first Model Ys, highlighting the excitement and advancements in production.