Tesla Opens New Modern Lobby at Giga Berlin With Robotic 'Bartender'

November 9, 2023

By Kevin Armstrong

Tesla built a new lobby for its Giga Berlin factory

@sina39184138 / @justpaulinelol

Tesla's Gigafactory Berlin adds a new dimension to its innovative landscape with the debut of its strikingly modern lobby. As visitors enter, they are immediately transported into what appears to be the future of corporate interiors. The recently opened space is a testament to the company's commitment to blending design with functionality, featuring the Tesla Model Y charging amidst a visually engaging environment illuminated by undulating neon lights and adorned with chic metallic touches.

A New Public Space with Robotic Charm

This lobby isn't merely a space to cross; it's an experience. Public access began last Sunday, and it already boasts an array of engaging features, such as a merchandise vending machine that offers Tesla-branded items at the touch of a button. Visitors watch as the lobby's robot, capable of pouring beer and preparing coffee, adds a playful yet sophisticated element to the visitor experience.

The lobby is thoughtfully laid over two floors, providing comfortable seating for guests on both levels. The design centerpiece is the reception area, which features a large, geometric desk operated by welcoming Tesla staff. The early visuals shared by the company showcase these elements, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail that has gone into creating this space.

"Hey ? I want a ☕️ please"

Giga Berlin ????

Tell me another place where you can get a coffee served by a robot while you wait to buy a car or explore the factory.
I’ll wait ☝?

Thanks @elonmusk ??!
We’re definitely living in the future! pic.twitter.com/Lr1bWFTtMy
— Pauline ? (@justpaulinelol) November 6, 2023

Tesla's Expanding Footprint

Nestled in Grünheide, just outside the urban buzz of Berlin, the Gigafactory stands as a beacon of Tesla's manufacturing might. The factory's focus on the Model Y SUV has led to a remarkable production cadence of 5,000 weekly vehicles. In a recent visit, Musk hinted at an exciting future for the factory, with plans to produce an affordable $25,000 Tesla, making sustainable transportation options more available to the masses.

Adding Giga Berlin as a manufacturing site for Tesla's ambitious Model 2 represents a pragmatic pivot in the company's global strategy. With its roots stretching from the initial plans in Mexico to the assembly lines in Texas and now extending to Germany, Tesla's path reflects a responsive and adaptive approach to the ever-changing landscape of global manufacturing.

By situating production within the European market, Tesla appears to align its operational logistics with regional market dynamics, potentially streamlining the delivery process and enhancing its competitive edge in a critical EV market.

Tesla's vision for its Berlin Gigafactory doesn't stop at vehicle production. The company is looking to broaden its horizons with a significant expansion set to commence in early 2024. These plans include constructing a water recycling system and adding a second production facility to its existing infrastructure. Moreover, a future-focused battery recycling plant is also on the cards, underscoring Tesla's dedication to sustainability and innovation.

Giga Berlin — Das Juwel Deutschlands ??

- Elon Musk @elonmusk pic.twitter.com/jxKO0jubii
— Lieblingsengel ? (@sina39184138) November 6, 2023

Norway Approves Tesla’s FSD Testing on Public Roads; Potential for Europe-Wide Deployment

April 26, 2025

By Karan Singh

Not a Tesla App

According to filings found by Kees Roelandschap on X, Tesla has obtained a 2-year exemption from UNECE autonomy regulations to run FSD Supervised on public roads in Norway. This marks one of the first positive developments for regulations and autonomy in Europe — great news for European customers.

Previously, European transportation agencies stressed additional caution and requested more time to legislate, further delaying the widespread UNECE regulation changes for autonomous vehicles.

Norwegian FSD - Employees Only

Following the recent approval from the Norwegian Road Authority, Tesla will be permitted to use its Supervised vehicles on public roads in a testing capacity. This exemption does not yet apply to customers, so we will have to wait and see how testing progresses.

Tesla will specifically be allowed to run FSD V13 and its derivative builds (meaning AI4 vehicles only) with automated steering and speed controls on EU-registered and approved vehicles.

Tesla will also be required to have Tesla-trained drivers (employees) conduct the testing. There is no specific policy in place that enables the use of FSD for customers at this time. However, as testing is conducted and bureaucratic hurdles are overcome across various transportation departments, Tesla may be able to extend the offer to European customers. According to Tesla’s latest earnings call, the company still plans to release FSD in Europe by the end of the year.

Tesla has already begun testing in the Netherlands, showing off FSD’s capabilities in Amsterdam.

FSD Supervised in Europe, pending regulatory approval pic.twitter.com/PYkcATjSUN
— Tesla Europe & Middle East (@teslaeurope) April 5, 2025

Article 39 Exemption

The UNECE can grant exemptions for innovative technologies that move faster than legislation under Article 39. However, Tesla requires the backing of a national ministry of transport to bring this to the UNECE’s attention. The next round of voting on critical issues is expected on May 12, 2025, which may not leave Tesla much time to present its findings to UNECE.

We don’t expect Tesla to receive authorization immediately. It may take several weeks or months of testing from the Netherlands or Norway teams before one of the two countries is willing to support Tesla’s exemption bid.

However, if Tesla achieves an Article 39 exemption, it could allow Tesla to roll out FSD to customers across Europe, provided there are no country-level exemptions.

Tesla Reintroduces FSD Transfers in North America

April 25, 2025

By Karan Singh

Not a Tesla App

Following customer requests, Tesla has once again returned FSD Transfers for North America. This comes after some new details we received on FSD Supervised and Unsupervised at the recent Q1 2025 Earnings Call.

Vox Populi, Vox Dei … FSD Transfer is back

All countries (in NA), all S3XY + @cybertruck (excl Foundation Series & Launch Series)
— Tesla North America (@tesla_na) April 25, 2025

FSD Transfers

This latest round of FSD transfers doesn’t have a specific time limit - so if you’re in the market for a new vehicle and were worried about transferring FSD from a HW3 vehicle - now is the best chance.

This transfer opportunity is applicable for any new vehicle purchases, including the Model S, 3, X, Y, as well as the Cybertruck. The only vehicles it doesn’t apply to are the Foundation-Series Cybertruck or a Launch-Series Model Y, which already come with FSD included.

If you’re conducting an FSD transfer, you’ll need to reach out to your Tesla delivery coordinator through the Tesla app to confirm you’re eligible and to get the process started.

Note that once you take delivery, FSD access is removed from your older vehicle, regardless if you plan to trade in your vehicle or keep it.

Canada and Mexico

For those in Canada and Mexico, there’s some good news. This opportunity is available for customers in those countries as well, however, new vehicle orders are currently paused in Canada and Mexico for unknown reasons.