Tesla’s Gigafactory ahead of schedule

Tesla’s Gigafactory is reportedly ahead of schedule and will begin producing batteries for use in its Model 3 vehicles before the end of the year.

The all-electric manufacturer had initially planned to start production of smaller, cheaper lithium-ion battery cells in 2017, but CEO Elon Musk told reporters on 26 July that it had accelerated plans and brought the production date forward.

The plant is now partially operational, with Musk telling reporters it is now around 14 per cent complete. Development of the factory is vital to meet Tesla’s target of producing 500,000 vehicles a year by 2018, and it will need to stay on track if Tesla is to keep up with orders for the £35,000 Model 3.

1,000 employees are currently working at the Gigafactry, and Musk suggested that by the time it is completed it will employ around 10,000, helping to meet the planned annual battery production target of 35 GWh.

Read more