First unveiled in November 2017, the Tesla Semi truck has officially entered production, marking a significant milestone in the electric vehicle sector. According to an announcement from Elon Musk, founder and CEO of Tesla, the first Tesla Semi trucks are scheduled to be delivered to PepsiCo in December of this year, ushering in a new era for long-haul freight transport.
Tesla Semi truck showcasing its sleek design and aerodynamic features
Elon Musk enthusiastically shared impressive technical specifications of the Tesla Semi truck on social media. He stated that the truck can accelerate from 0 to approximately 100 km/h (0-60 mph) in just 20 seconds when unloaded – a remarkable feat for a semi-truck. Notably, even when fully loaded, the Tesla Semi truck maintains exceptional acceleration, especially when climbing hills on the highway. Tesla also emphasized that with advanced charging technology, just about 30 minutes of charging can provide the Tesla Semi truck with up to 70% of its maximum range, equivalent to approximately 800km in ideal conditions.
The lighting system of the Tesla Semi truck has also received special attention from Tesla. The truck is equipped with a comprehensive LED lighting system, which not only provides high lighting performance but also optimizes energy savings. The LED headlights of the Tesla Semi truck can automatically adjust the beam and turn on/off, enhancing the driver’s visibility in low-light conditions or adverse weather, ensuring safety on every transport journey.
Close-up of the Tesla Semi truck's unique headlight design
The exterior design of the Tesla Semi truck boasts a futuristic and distinctive appearance compared to traditional semi-truck models. Despite its seemingly asymmetrical appearance, Tesla asserts that this design optimizes cabin space, providing comfort and convenience for long-haul drivers. The Tesla Semi truck has a load capacity of up to 40 tons, an impressive figure that demonstrates the power and superior freight transport capabilities of this electric truck model. The powerful electric motor enables the Tesla Semi truck to accelerate quickly even when fully loaded, a significant advantage over traditional diesel trucks, especially in situations requiring overtaking or navigating complex terrain.
The interior space of the Tesla Semi truck is also a noteworthy highlight. Tesla has simplified the center console as much as possible, eliminating almost all physical buttons, creating a modern and intuitive workspace. Instead, the Tesla Semi truck is equipped with two large touch screen displays, placed symmetrically on either side of the steering wheel. The left screen focuses on managing vehicle operating functions such as speedometer, air conditioning system, and other settings. The right screen displays information from cameras, navigation maps, and entertainment applications, providing maximum support for the driver throughout the journey.
Prior to 2022, information about the Tesla Semi truck was relatively limited. However, in early May of this year, Tesla officially opened pre-orders for this model, with an initial deposit of $20,000. Elon Musk revealed that vehicle deliveries would begin in 2023. According to the latest updates from his Twitter account, the Tesla Semi truck may soon appear on highways, starting in December of this year. This event not only marks a significant advancement for Tesla in the commercial vehicle sector but also opens a new chapter for the freight transport industry, moving towards greater sustainability and efficiency.
Image credits: Compiled from Tesla and Mensfolio
