🚀 Exclusive Interview with André Thierig
@AndrThie, Senior Director of Manufacturing at Tesla Giga Berlin!
We sat down for a wide-ranging conversation covering the factory’s incredible journey, major recent milestones, manufacturing breakthroughs, factory culture, and what’s next for Europe’s most important Tesla plant.
In this interview we discuss:
• Giga Berlin’s evolution and the meaning behind producing the millionth vehicle
• The new $250 million investment in the 4680 cell factory (18 GWh capacity + 1,500+ jobs)
• 20% Model Y production increase starting in July — what changed operationally
• Giga casting, autonomous vehicle movement from the light tunnel to outbound yard, and other manufacturing innovations
• The advanced paint shop and how it enables colors like Quicksilver and Midnight Cherry Red
• Sustainability efforts, especially the water and wastewater systems
• The iconic graffiti artwork, “Giga Berlin Casting Pirates” culture, and what it means for the team
• Navigating Germany’s labor environment with IG Metall while keeping Tesla’s speed and intensity
• Key takeaways from André’s recent conversation with Elon Musk
• Europe sales momentum, the “built in Germany” advantage, and what Tesla needs to stay ahead
André also shares his personal message to Tesla owners in Europe and what the world should expect next from Giga Berlin.
If you’re into world-class manufacturing, Tesla’s first-principles approach, or just love seeing how the sausage is made at one of the most advanced car factories on the planet — this one’s for you.
@tesla @teslaeurope @lifeatGFBB @gigafactories