Tesla unveils its new factory in Michigan

Posted January 20, 2019 06:02:13TESLA, Mich.

(AP) Tesla Inc. has opened a factory in southwestern Michigan to make batteries for electric cars.

The announcement Tuesday came as Tesla reported disappointing third-quarter profit.

It said the factory in Mesquite, Mich., will manufacture lithium ion batteries for the electric-car maker.

The company said the plant will create approximately 600 new jobs in the state, which has a population of about 1.2 million.

Tesla is hoping to hire 1,000 to 1,500 workers there this year and has plans to double the size of its factory to 10,000 workers.

The company has also been expanding its Fremont, Calif., factory.