_x000D_Screenshot: Tesla (youtube.com)

In January 2024, what prompted Tesla to put the brakes on production at its German plant?

In January 2024, Tesla’s German factory in Berlin hit a speed bump. From Jan. 29 to Feb. 11, Tesla had to stop most of its production. Why, you ask? The Red Sea turmoil. This international waterway, usually buzzing with ships, found itself in a maritime muddle due to Houthi rebel attacks. The result? A disruption of the global shipping corridor, which is as crucial to Tesla as a fully charged battery is to its cars. Tesla’s Berlin factory relies heavily on parts shipped from Asia. With cargo ships detouring around the Cape of Good Hope, the supply chain gap got wide enough to drive a Tesla Semi through. Just a reminder that in the world of global manufacturing, it’s all connected – from a conflict in the Red Sea to electric cars in Berlin.