Despite earlier reports of production cuts, Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory is currently operating at full capacity, according to a visit by Beijing News Shell Finance on July 15th. The factory’s Model Y production line is producing a new car approximately every 30 seconds.
High Production Levels
This update follows concerns earlier this year about potential production reductions at the Shanghai plant. In May, Reuters reported that Tesla planned to cut production by at least 20% between March and June 2024. Tesla China did not comment on these reports, and there was a noted decline in new car registrations and export volumes compared to the same time frame in 2023.
However, now that the third quarter has started, Tesla seems to be increasing its production to meet year-end targets. CEO Elon Musk has mentioned that the company aims to exceed last year’s car sales figures, and achieving this objective depends heavily on the Shanghai factory maintaining full operational capacity.
Advanced Automation
The report also emphasizes the factory’s remarkable level of automation. Tesla’s final assembly workshop employs a vertically stacked, dual-line configuration. Vertical elevators transport doors, bodies, and other components, which saves nearly 100 meters of production line space. Furthermore, the four workshops are interconnected, allowing for efficient movement of parts within the factory.
This high level of automation results in an impressive 95% fully automated production across the factory, with the welding workshop nearing 100% automation.
Future Expansion
In addition to car production, Tesla is also advancing its Shanghai Energy Storage Super Factory project. Tesla Vice President Tao Lin has confirmed that the project is on schedule for completion in 2025. This facility will focus on manufacturing Tesla’s flagship energy storage product, the Megapack.
