Tesla has been ordered by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District to address significant air quality issues at its Fremont, California manufacturing plant. Over the past five years, the facility has accrued 112 violations for allegedly releasing toxic emissions, particularly from its paint shop operations. The district’s independent hearing board has mandated that Tesla hire an independent consultant to develop and execute an implementation plan to stop the harmful emissions, which pose a risk to public health in the surrounding community.
In addition to this environmental mandate, Tesla faces other legal and regulatory challenges. Recently, the company announced its fourth recall of the new Cybertruck pickup to address issues with trim pieces and windshield wipers. Earlier this year, Tesla settled a civil case for $1.5 million related to mishandling hazardous waste at its service centers and factory, following allegations of illegal disposal and storage violations. Despite these challenges, Tesla has cooperated with investigations and worked to improve compliance with relevant laws.