FYI: Political activists claim to have projected anti-Tesla messages on Gigafactory Berlin, stirring controversy and investigation.
Two activist groups based in Germany are drawing attention with their claim of projecting provocative images and messages on Tesla’s Gigafactory Berlin. The groups, known as the Center for Political Beauty and Led by Donkeys, allege they displayed an image of Elon Musk performing a controversial salute alongside phrases like "Heil Tesla" and "Boycott Tesla" on the factory’s exterior.
Activist Claims and Visual Protests
The activists took to social media to share what they assert are images and videos of their protest against Tesla and Musk. Led by Donkeys, a group previously known for projecting an anti-Tesla video on another Tesla facility in Amsterdam, has accused Elon Musk of endorsing far-right ideologies and supposedly supporting white supremacist movements. They supported their claims with a video showcasing their messages on Gigafactory Berlin. A representative from the Center for Political Beauty stated that the projection was executed around 8 p.m., with the use of a drone to capture and disseminate the projections.
Official Reactions and Doubts
Initial responses from local authorities challenge the claims made by these activist groups. In an interview with the German news outlet Tagesspiegel, police communicated skepticism, remarking, "We have not made any findings, even after consulting the security guards at the Tesla factory, this never happened. The photo is fake." However, the situation took a turn as a law enforcement spokesperson from the Eastern Police Directorate later acknowledged an ongoing investigation into the matter. The inquiry, led by the Frankfurt (Oder) public prosecutor’s office, suggests that the projected symbols could potentially indicate the use of unconstitutional symbols.
Amid these conflicting accounts, the activist groups have maintained their stance, insisting Tesla is aware of the incident. They argue that Tesla’s extensive surveillance systems at the Gigafactory would have captured the event. Additional images supposedly showing the projection from an alternative angle, which were acquired by Tagesspiegel, appear to depict equipment used for playing their anti-Tesla messages audibly.
In Conclusion
The unfolding controversy between political activists and Tesla highlights the persistent scrutiny Elon Musk and his ventures attract. While the authenticity of the activists’ claims is questioned by authorities, the potential implications of using polarizing imagery and statements continue to stir public discourse. As investigations proceed, the situation underscores the tension between public activism and corporate giants in today’s socio-political climate.
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Authored by William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
