Tesla China Factory Chief Exiting This Week, Report Reveals

Tesla’s Shanghai factory is facing a change in leadership this week as Song Gang, the executive overseeing the plant’s construction, is set to depart the US automaker, according to a report from Bloomberg. Song, who joined Tesla Shanghai back in December 2018 and was instrumental in the establishment of Giga Shanghai, will be succeeded by Fei Wenjin, recently promoted to senior director from director of quality.

Before his tenure at Tesla, Song worked with prominent car manufacturers like General Motors, Ford, and Zhidou Electrical Vehicle. His LinkedIn profile speaks to his enthusiasm for leading innovative energy projects and highlights his involvement in Tesla’s Megapack battery factory in Shanghai, expected to be operational by early 2025.

The Shanghai Megafactory represents Tesla’s significant commitment to energy storage outside of the US, marking a milestone in the company’s expansion. With an annual production capacity of up to 10,000 Megapacks, the factory aims to contribute to Tesla’s global market presence and sustainable energy objectives.

Currently, Giga Shanghai stands as Tesla’s largest production facility worldwide, with an annual capacity exceeding 1 million units. The factory mainly produces the Model 3 sedan and Model Y, catering to local demand and serving as an export hub for Tesla’s products. In November alone, the Shanghai plant shipped nearly 79,000 cars, contributing to the 822,894 units shipped globally in the first eleven months of the year.

Despite global supply chain challenges, Tesla saw a significant increase in deliveries within China, surpassing 574,000 vehicles from January to November—an 8.77% year-on-year growth. Notably, Tesla’s Shanghai factory has played a pivotal role in the export market, shipping over 248,000 vehicles during the same period.

As Tesla continues to expand its operations and maintain its position as an industry leader, Song Gang’s departure marks a transition in the company’s leadership structure. His contributions to the Shanghai factory and the Megapack battery project underscore Tesla’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and innovative manufacturing practices. Stay tuned for more updates on Tesla’s journey towards a sustainable future in the global automotive industry.