Tesla has finally unveiled its electric truck, the Tesla Semi, which will not only reduce the emissions that semi trucks emit, but also make it easier for drivers to transport cargo.
The Tesla Semi has a driving range up to 500 miles, which is more than enough range for most shipping applications, since nearly 80 percent of today’s trips are less than 250 miles at a time. But when the battery is depleted, drivers will be able to recharge the Tesla Semi in a matter of minutes, thanks to new megachargers that add about 400 miles of range in only 30 minutes.
You’d never think about actual performance with a semi truck, but the Tesla Semi reaches 60 mph in only five seconds without a trailer, which is much shorter than the 15 seconds that comparable diesel truck takes, With an 80,000 pound load the truck can reach 60 mph in 20 seconds.
Once on the road, the Tesla Semi will make it easier for drivers, since can also travel in a convoy, where one or several Semi trucks will be able to autonomously follow a lead Semi. Inside the driver sits in the middle of the cab and is surrounded by touchscreen displays on both sides. The screens provide access to navigation, blind spot monitoring and electronic data logging.
Tesla hopes to start production of the Tesla Semi in 2019 and you can already reserve one for $5,000, although final pricing has not been released.
Source: Tesla
