Tesla is expected to release the new Project Highland Model 3 in China in the coming weeks, and to support the launch, Giga Shanghai will reportedly be firing up one of its battery production lines.
According to a report by local news outlet 36kr, Tesla is restarting operations on Phase 1 of the battery production line at its Chinese facility. The restart of production is reportedly being made to help with the expected surge in orders once the new Model 3 is officially released.
The Shanghai plant’s battery production capacity is broken up into three phases: Phase 1, Phase 2, and Phase 2.2. The first phase can produce about 3,000 to 4,000 packs per week according to 36kr, while the latter phases can produce about 10,000 per week, for a combined monthly capacity of 100,000 units.
As we reported last month, Tesla initiated a series of layoffs at the Phase 1 battery production line at Giga Shanghai, giving some workers the option to be reassigned to other workshops around the factory. The report from 36kr claims, citing sources familiar with the matter, that some battery production line works are already returning to work.
Tesla still has not officially announced anything regarding the refreshed Model 3. Leaked images and spy shots suggest redesigned elements, including new headlights, taillights, a new interior with updated dashboard and door panels with integrated RBG lighting. If recent reports are accurate, the new Model 3 should launch in China next month, meaning Canadians could get the new version of the electric sedan before the US after Tesla decided to import cars from China into Canada, instead of bringing them up from the Fremont factory in California.
