American giant Tesla arrives in New Caledonia
Tesla Model X
The management of Tesla and the south factory, which produces a rare component of nickel, but also cobalt, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU). "The letter of intent contains a trade agreement between the two parties," a Caledonian political source confirmed.
The French government is supporting the initiative which should help develop the potential of the large industrial complex that started production in 2010. The agreement with Tesla will allow the south plant to ensure the unprecedented ramp-up of its production, and to create jobs linked to the battery sector, and the Californian manufacturer to benefit from priorities of supply of "electric" nickel.
This comes after Elon Musk, stressed that he needs a lot of ethical nickel, produced under good environmental and societal conditions, for the batteries of his electric cars. The Caledonian industrial site will take a leading position in the battery-grade nickel segment, with ethical and responsible production. A "green nickel" compatible with the environmental values promoted by New Caledonia, the European Union and France.