Tesla is making big moves in Europe with the announcement of a new research and development (R&D) center set to open in Berlin-Köpenick by 2026. This new facility, located strategically between downtown Berlin and Tesla’s Giga Berlin factory in Grünheide, will serve as a major hub for engineering and innovation in the region.
The news was first reported by rbb24 and confirmed by Tesla’s engineering VP Lars Moravy. The R&D center will initially employ around 130 engineers and technicians, with plans to grow the staff to 250 over time. Many of the employees will transfer from Giga Berlin and other local Tesla sites, making it one of Tesla’s largest R&D centers in Europe.
The focus of the center will be on materials research, vehicle design, battery development, and charging infrastructure – all crucial areas for Tesla’s long-term goals of cost reduction and efficiency. Berlin’s universities played a significant role in the selection of the location, as Tesla aims to tap into academic talent and establish research partnerships. The company is investing a high double-digit million sum into the project, which involves converting a vacant factory site.
German officials have welcomed the news, with Berlin’s Senator for Economic Affairs, Franziska Giffey, calling the project a “lighthouse” for international research and development. Local leaders highlighted that Berlin had been competing with other European regions for Tesla’s selection since late 2024.
The expansion of Tesla’s operations in Germany comes at a time when sales in the country have faced challenges. However, Giga Berlin has recently achieved significant milestones, including the production of the 100,000th refreshed Model Y, the start of production for the new Model Y Performance, and the implementation of a system where vehicles drive themselves off the production line.
With the R&D center scheduled to open in 2026, Tesla is reaffirming Berlin’s importance in the company’s innovation strategy in Europe. The new facility will play a crucial role in advancing Tesla’s research and development efforts in the region, further solidifying the company’s presence in Europe’s automotive industry.