Overview
- IG Metall filed a criminal complaint for defamation against plant director André Thierig and applied to the Labor Court in Frankfurt/Oder for a preliminary injunction.
- Tesla accused a union representative of secretly recording a works council meeting; police seized the laptop and prosecutors confirmed an active investigation.
- The union denies any recording occurred, says the device has been offered for full forensic access, and wants findings before the March 2–4 election for roughly 11,000 employees.
- The vote could shift control of the 39‑seat council, where IG Metall currently holds 16 seats, potentially enabling moves such as adopting the 35‑hour workweek standard.
- Thierig previously warned a pro‑union result could jeopardize expansion, while Giga Berlin faces reported cuts of about 1,700 jobs and sharp European sales declines against substantial unused capacity.