Tesla has introduced a train shuttle service at its Gigafactory Berlin facility in Germany, making it the first Tesla factory to offer transportation access via rail. The train shuttle is capable of carrying up to 400 people per ride and is expected to help alleviate road traffic congestion in the area.
The announcement was made via Tesla Europe’s official Twitter account, accompanied by a short video showcasing the inaugural train’s arrival at the new Tesla station situated within the factory grounds. The video also offered a glimpse of the train platform, which is adorned with a canopy covered in solar panels.
Interestingly, the train used for the shuttle service is not electrified, a fact that did not escape the notice of some observers. It was identified as a Bombardier Talent train, which typically relies on a diesel engine to generate the driving current. This detail raised some eyebrows given that Tesla is renowned for its electric vehicles (EVs).
However, it’s worth noting that while Tesla owns the railroad tracks, the train itself is operated by NEB (Die Niederbarnimer Eisenbahn). The train service has been put in place to transport both Gigafactory Berlin employees and local residents between the Fangschleuse station and the factory premises in Grünheide. It replaces the previous bus shuttle that ferried workers between the Erkner train station and the Gigafactory.
Tesla had previously stated that the train would run approximately 60 times a day from Monday to Friday, with departures every 40 minutes, providing transportation for over 1,500 people directly to the factory at each shift change.
While some have raised concerns about the train not being electric, it’s worth considering that the train shuttle service aligns with Tesla’s goal of reducing road traffic in the area, which can contribute to environmental benefits despite the use of a diesel-powered train.
Overall, Tesla’s introduction of a train shuttle service at Gigafactory Berlin reflects its commitment to innovative and sustainable transportation solutions both in its products and at its production facilities.