An environmental group is taking legal action against Tesla, saying the company’s factory in Fremont, California, is releasing harmful chemicals into the air. They claim that Tesla broke federal laws by emitting pollutants like nitrogen oxides, arsenic, and cadmium, mainly from its paint shop. The group wants the court to stop Tesla from polluting and to impose fines of over $100,000 per day.
The Bay Area Air Quality Management District also raised concerns about Tesla’s emissions and is seeking ways to make the company reduce pollution from its paint operations. Despite being known for electric cars, Tesla has faced criticism for its environmental impact.
Tesla’s Fremont factory has a permit called Title V, overseen by the BAAQMD. It was found that Tesla violated this permit over 160 times between 2012 and 2024. The company’s emissions control system reportedly often fails, leading to hundreds of violations and illegal air pollution.
In February, Tesla agreed to pay $1.5 million to settle a lawsuit by California counties over mishandling hazardous waste. The Environmental Democracy Project filed this latest lawsuit under the Clean Air Act, claiming Tesla violated pollution permits.
Critics highlight the contradiction of a company known for eco-friendly electric vehicles facing environmental issues. This situation raises concerns about Tesla’s commitment to sustainability despite its green image.
