Germany is on the brink of recession as its auto industry slumps. Tesla and the rise of electric cars are putting pressure on VW and BMW //

The sweeping electric car pivot that's being led by Tesla is starting to have an impact on Europe's biggest economy - Germany, by striking at its backbone, the automobile manufacturing industry. | //

• Germany is on the brink of recession after growth slowed to zero in the last quarter.
• The economy is being dragged down by a seismic slump in car manufacturing.
• The Tesla effect – and the shift to electric vehicles – is leaving Germany in dire straits.