Tesla has come under fire on its new factory near Berlin, which will become its new European hub. The criticism related to deforestation and water usage, without necessary permits.  

New conditions are under an eight-week public review and an open hearing will take place in September. 

It is still expected that the first cars will roll over in the first half of next year. 

The plant will employ 12,000 people and produce up to 500,000 vehicles annually. 

Tesla is banking on a big up-tick in European electric car sales in the future, as tougher emission standards continue to be built into most major markets. It also wants to exploit its first mover status on electrification which still has it ahead of the European giants who are all rapidly trying to catch up to Tesla.