GRUENHEIDE, Germany - Tesla got the go-ahead for an expansion of its German factory in Gruenheide near Berlin from the local council on Thursday despite protests against the U.S. electric vehicle maker's plans.

The green light from the Gruenheide council is just the first in a series of hurdles Tesla needs to clear before being able to start its expansion to add logistical spaces including a train station. The expansion must also be approved by local environmental authorities.

  - Reuters