Investigation into Possible Illegal Storage of Hazardous Substances in German Tesla Factory
The public prosecutor in Germany is investigating the American manufacturer of electric vehicles, Tesla. The company may have stored hazardous substances without a permit at its factory near the German capital Berlin.
The investigation in Potsdam, the capital of the eastern state of Brandenburg that surrounds Berlin, was initiated following a criminal complaint filed by the state’s environmental agency against Tesla. The complaint concerns the management of a temporary storage facility for hazardous materials on the site of the Tesla factory in Grünheide.
The public prosecutor’s office stated on Monday that it is investigating whether there has been an infringement and, if so, who can be held responsible. No further details were given as the investigation is still ongoing.
Tesla did not comment on the investigation. The car manufacturer started production in Grünheide in March. However, this was delayed by months due to problems with permits. Environmental organizations and local residents had lodged complaints.
