Five years after the announcement of the Tesla Gigafactory in Grünheide, the region has seen significant job creation and economic growth, with 12,500 jobs and 5,000 cars produced weekly. Despite this success, there remains substantial local opposition, particularly concerning water usage and environmental impacts. Protests persist, but local officials acknowledge the positive economic influence Tesla has brought, including enhanced infrastructure and increased visibility for the area. Politically, Elon Musk’s controversial persona complicates local support for Tesla as Brandenburg seeks to separate corporate success from Musk’s polarizing reputation.