A new Tesla plant is coming to Nambe Pueblo at the site of an old casino, according to a recent report by KRQE.
With a major step toward bringing clean energy options to rural America, state officials called the new deal historic, saying the new Tesla location will serve a beneficial role for both the city and its residents.
“This location will not only create permanent jobs but it is also part of a long-term relationship with Tesla, as the company is working with the Pueblo of Nambe to provide education and training opportunities for tribal members as well as economic development,” Nambe Pueblo Gov. Phillip Perez told KRQE.
A group of residents in the state have been working to bring the electric vehicle company to the state since 2015, KRQE reports. As with all other Tesla facilities, the Nambe Pueblo plant will focus on clean energy and follow suit with the state's commitment to low-emission vehicles.
A current state law forces buyers to go through independent dealerships rather than vehicle manufacturers selling directly to consumers like Tesla, KRQE reports. While lawmakers have attempted to repeal the law in the past, efforts have previously been unsuccessful, though it's unclear whether the new facility is the company's way around the restrictions, the report states.
New Mexico is just one of 23 other states that have a version of this law.
