The US electric vehicle maker, which also runs other projects like energy storage and super computers, previously said construction for the facility was scheduled to start in the third quarter of this year and production would begin in the second quarter of 2024. Most of the megapacks manufactured will be for export.

The Shanghai location is Tesla’s second dedicated Megapack factory, following the Lathrop plant in California. Tesla’s EV facility in Nevada can also make the Megapack.

Tesla’s energy generation business is a fast growing revenue stream. The unit recorded US$1.6 billion in revenue in the third quarter, up 40%, driven by sales of the Megapack, a battery that helps stabilise the grid and prevent outages, according to company reports.