Tesla Inc. executive Max de Zegher has attributed the long wait times at charging stations across Sweden this winter to the ongoing strikes in the region against the automaker. According to de Zegher, over 100 stalls in Sweden would have been energized this winter if not for the sympathy strikes against Tesla.
The Impact of the Strike
De Zegher stated that despite the challenges, Tesla will continue to invest and build sites for Swedish EV drivers, including more capacity in several locations. However, he noted that there is no clear path yet to getting the stalls turned on, implying that the company has no clear deadline in sight for when the strike would end.
A ‘Super Painful’ Experience for EV Drivers
De Zegher responded to a video of a large number of EVs lined up at a supercharger in Sweden, waiting to charge, saying “Waiting in line like this is super painful, hurts EV adoption and totally fixable!” He emphasized the importance of Tesla Superchargers, especially for peak travel days.
The Reason Behind the Strike
The strike, commenced by Swedish trade union IF Metall in October 2023, seeks to pressure Tesla into negotiations for collective bargaining agreements for its members. Collective bargaining agreements are a crucial part of the Swedish economy, covering 90% of the workforce and governing aspects of employment such as wages, benefits, and working hours.
Tesla’s Stance
Tesla has previously stated that its terms are as good as or better than the union’s demands. However, IF Metall’s year-long strike continues, with other unions joining in sympathy strikes, causing disruptions to Tesla’s operations in Sweden.
The Future of EV Adoption
The ongoing strike and resulting wait times at charging stations may hurt EV adoption in Sweden, which could have long-term consequences for the industry. As the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, the need for reliable and efficient charging infrastructure becomes increasingly important. Tesla’s ability to resolve the strike and expand its Supercharger network will be crucial in supporting the growth of EV adoption in the region.