Giga Lab: Tesla's latest concept store in China can build cars in 45 seconds

An engaging proposition for visitors 

The Giga factory concept store allows automotive enthusiasts to have a conversation while having an immersive experience of how the Tesla Model 3 is manufactured in 45 seconds using an automated system. 

Amidst finished models of Tesla Model 3, a robotic arm does the work of assembling various panels on a Tesla Model 3's frame so that customers can get an idea of how their cars are put together in its Gigagfactory in Shanghai. 

The retail store also exhibits parts of the powertrain and batteries to provide a wholesome experience and hopes to initiate conversations and develop an interest in its models. 

Tesla Gigafactory in Shanghai started production in 2019, and by 2022 it had become the most giant electric vehicle factory in the world, with its production rate touching 1 million cars in a car. 

Tesla is also planning to build its new-age pouch cells at its factory in Shanghai, in addition to its Texas facility. In its electric vehicles, Tesla has traditionally used cylindrical cells, although it has started adopting pouch cells with LFP chemistry for its shorter-range models.

A growing focus on the physical retail model

With the new Giga Lab, Tesla is signaling the importance of having a physical chain of stores to drive-up engagement in markets showing high demand for EVs. In fact, since 2000, the number of Tesla's physical sites (retail and service) has more than doubled to 1,000 locations worldwide.

Tesla is attempting to follow a direct-to-consumer method that eliminates the need for customers to approach a dealership for their orders. Such a scenario results in better pricing and a reduced waiting period for customers. But, growing competition in the EV space has prompted Tesla to look for innovative ways to keep its marketing campaigns going and ensure that enough orders keep coming in.