Tesla's planned development center will be situated at the Köpenick location
In a significant development for the German capital, Tesla has announced plans to establish a European development center in Berlin-Koepenick. The historic site of Kabelwerk Köpenick, founded in 1858 and later taken over by Siemens, will be the new home for the company's research and development in vehicle technology, drive systems, and material innovations.
The site, which has been derelict for decades since production ceased in 1994, is located away from established technology centers. However, the area surrounding the former Kabelwerk Koepenick is partly earmarked for residential development, offering potential for Tesla's planned project.
The housing company BUWOG has decided to redevelop the site, with plans for more than 900 apartments and commercial spaces. The center will also include a kindergarten and gastronomy facilities. Around 30% of the apartments are planned to be sold as supported housing with a reduced rental price.
The two red brick factory halls, listed but unable to be fully restored, will be at the heart of the future residential and commercial campus. A nine-story office tower will be built at the corner of Salvador-Allende-Straße.
The use of an existing hall for Tesla's center is said to be mainly for reasons of sustainability, with a sufficient power supply and proximity to the train connection being decisive factors. Initially, around 130 engineers will work at the center, with the number expected to double to up to 250 in the medium term.
The site redevelopment includes a boulevard, a plaza, and a freely accessible path along the Müggelsee, aiming to restructure the area. The kindergarten will accommodate around 80 children.
Despite challenges, Tesla is likely shifting its focus to its existing Gigafactory in Grünheide near Berlin, rather than relocating to a new site. However, the establishment of a European development center in Berlin-Koepenick marks a significant step forward for Tesla's growth in Europe.
Several investors have previously attempted to develop the site but were unsuccessful. During the DDR era, the site was part of the Kombinat Kabelwerk Oberspree (KWO). The adjacent former industrial halls could potentially be attractive for further expansion of Tesla's project.
The redevelopment of the site by BUWOG is currently underway, offering a promising future for the historic location in Berlin-Koepenick.
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