Tesla Introduces Giga Train at German Factory

The Siemens Mireo Plus B Train

Tesla has recently launched the Giga Train at its Gigafactory in Berlin, Germany. However, contrary to popular belief, this train was not designed or built by Tesla. The train, known as the Mireo Plus B, is manufactured by Siemens and features lithium-titanium-oxide batteries from Toshiba. It has been leased to Tesla by the German state of Baden-Württemberg.

Transporting Tesla Employees

The Giga Train is primarily used to transport employees between the existing Erkner station and the new Tesla Süd station at the factory. With a capacity to carry up to 500 people per trip, it is expected to transport 4,500 employees daily. This initiative aims to reduce parking demand at the plant and alleviate traffic congestion on local roads.

Battery-Powered and Environmentally Friendly

Similar to Tesla’s cars, the Giga Train is powered by batteries. It can be charged on electrified tracks or run on battery power alone when operating on standard tracks. With a range of up to 120 km (74 miles) on battery power, the train offers an eco-friendly transportation solution for Tesla employees.

Not a Tesla Manufactured Train

Despite its name, the Giga Train is not a product of Tesla’s train manufacturing endeavors. It is a Siemens train operated by Niederbarnimer Eisenbahn (NEB), a private regional railway company in Berlin and Brandenburg. The Giga Train stands out with its unique “Giga Train” branding along the sides.

Leased by Tesla

According to reports, Tesla does not own the Giga Train. It is owned by the German state of Baden-Württemberg and has been leased to Tesla for employee transportation purposes.