Tesla establishing a research and development facility in Berlin-Köpenick

Tesla, the leading electric vehicle manufacturer, has announced the establishment of a new European research and development center in Berlin-Köpenick. The facility, which will be renovated from an old factory, is expected to begin construction once permits are granted.

Initially, around 130 engineers will move to Köpenick from the Grünheide plant and smaller Berlin locations. The center will focus on material research, vehicle development, and powertrain engineering, with the aim of further advancing Tesla's technology and innovation.

The decision to establish the center in Berlin-Köpenick was the result of intensive and confidential discussions between Tesla, Berlin Partner, Economy Senator Franziska Giffey, Building Councillor Dr. Claudia Leistner, District Mayor Oliver Igel, and their offices. The old factory to be renovated has an area of around 20,000 square meters, providing ample space for Tesla's operations.

Tesla manager Lars Moravy announced the establishment of the center, stating that the facility will play a crucial role in Tesla's ongoing efforts to refresh the two more expensive models, S and X. The center will also contribute to Germany's leadership in the electric vehicle industry.

The facility in Berlin-Köpenick was chosen due to its spacious area, good energy supply, and location between Berlin and Grünheide, where Tesla is building its first European Gigafactory. The new European research and development center is not the same as the previously announced factory in Berlin.

Over three dozen locations were considered for the European research and development center, including a complete new build. However, the old factory in Berlin-Köpenick was deemed the most suitable due to its history, size, and location.

Tesla currently employs around 2,000 engineers and technicians in Germany, which is about one-fifth of its global workforce in this area. The facility in Berlin-Köpenick is expected to grow to around 250 employees in the coming years.

An important location for Tesla in Germany is Prüm in Rhineland-Palatinate, where Tesla acquired the supplier Grohmann, which specializes in factory automation, several years ago.

Initial technical tests in Köpenick are expected to happen in 2022, but it is more likely to occur in 2026. Construction work on the facility is expected to begin once the permits are granted, with the aim of completing the renovation and establishing the new European research and development center in Berlin-Köpenick.