Tesla recently filed documents detailing their plan to upgrade and possibly expand their Fremont Factory, adding new manufacturing space if necessary.
Last week, Tesla filed numerous documents that suggested factory improvements including new tooling installations and reorganization on the second-floor where its battery manufacturing project resides to accommodate other projects.
Tesla filed two notices on April 21 detailing projects it performs at Fremont. One filing was for installing tools on the first-floor assembly floor while a separate notice sought approval to install new electrical outlets in Fremont.
Fremont Factory has also undergone significant reorganization with regards to where various parts are located. Tesla is moving industrial vehicles and chargers between locations to create more space on the second-floor - this filing is called "Equipment Space Moves."
Tesla recently disclosed that they manufactured Cybertruck batteries on the second floor of Fremont Factory. Unfortunately, we couldn't ascertain if this is where Tesla also produces Cybertruck packs; more space may be necessary due to production beginning shortly in Texas for this all-electric pickup vehicle.
Tesla Outgrows the FREMONT Engine System
Tesla's initial production facility, Fremont Factory, has seen such significant expansion that it has become unusable; thus forcing Tesla to adapt and relocate.
Tesla initially employed temporary manufacturing areas known as sprung structures to increase Model 3 and Model Y production, however these structures have since become permanent fixtures of production.
Tesla continues to struggle for sufficient space at its Northern California facility. Elon Musk, Tesla's CEO, stated the company considered expanding their plant; however, an inspection by Morgan Stanley early last year demonstrated they simply outgrew it.
Analyst Adam Jonas noted:
The tour demonstrated that Tesla's plant wasn't designed to manufacture 450k cars annually (it produced 300k at peak prior to Tesla purchasing it from Toyota), nor do they hide from admitting its ineffective design with four assembly buildings, one being used exclusively as an assembly tent for car production.
Jonas noted the Fremont Factory was lacking space and provided limited opportunities for trucks delivering supplies directly into places that made sense within the plant.
