Tesla Inc. employees in Germany are calling for improvements in working conditions, placing pressure on the manufacturer led by Elon Musk, who is facing a sales decline in Europe’s largest auto market.
Over 3,000 workers at Tesla’s plant near Berlin have signed a petition requesting more breaks, better staffing, and an end to management’s intimidation tactics, as stated by the IG Metall union on Thursday. Workers have been working long hours and will have increased workload once Tesla resumes production of the Model Y following assembly line changes, according to union representatives.
IG Metall members of Tesla’s works council stated, “There is often not enough time even to take a break or use the restroom. No one can continue working like this until retirement.”
Tesla’s reputation in Germany has declined since Musk supported the right-wing AfD party during the election campaign and became an adviser to former U.S. President Donald Trump. The company’s sales in Germany dropped by 76% last month.
Concerns have been raised about Tesla’s car factory in Europe due to activists claiming excessive water usage and environmental threats. The company has also faced challenges with disruptions to surrounding railway infrastructure. Musk previously expressed concern over high absentee rates at the plant in Grünheide.
Union representatives plan to present the petition to Tesla management during an upcoming workers’ assembly. It remains uncertain whether the petition will lead to changes in working conditions at the plant. IG Metall members make up the largest group on Tesla’s works council but do not hold the majority. The factory has an estimated 10,500 employees, according to the union.
