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For years, a little-known company called Tooling & Equipment International (TEI) has helped Tesla push the boundaries of so-called “gigacasting,” the process it pioneered that casts large car parts into one piece, saving time and money.
Until 2023, that is. TEI is now part of General Motors after clinching a deal that may have gone unnoticed but is a crucial part of the U.S. automaker’s strategy to regain ground on Tesla, four people familiar with the transaction said.
By purchasing a specialist in sand casting techniques that accelerated the development of Tesla’s gigacasting molds and allowed it to cast more complex components, GM began its push to produce cars more cheaply and efficiently, at a time when Tesla rushes to launch its $25,000 electric vehicle. , people said.
Without TEI, Tesla is relying more on the three other foundry specialists it uses in the UK, Germany and Japan to develop the huge molds needed for the millions of cheaper electric vehicles it plans to produce over the next decade, the sources said.
At the same time, Tesla is struggling to find another sand casting specialist to replace TEI, or even develop these kinds of skills internally to reduce its reliance on external suppliers.
Source: Terra
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
