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What You Need To Know About Tesla’ Nearly Ready Semi
The upcoming release of the electrified Tesla Semi-Truck should have people paying close attention
In the recent past it seems that tech giant Tesla routinely has some project or new electric car/feature they are about to unveil to great fanfare. Next up is the company’s electric semi-trucks, which are expected to have their first units delivered in less than two months. What should investors and customers expect from this significant project? Here’s what’s known so far.
Musk first publicly mentioned the Tesla Semi as part of his Master Plan II all the way back in 2016. It was then that he explained why the project would fill a significant need:
“In addition to consumer vehicles, there are two other types of electric vehicle needed: heavy-duty trucks and high passenger-density urban transport. Both are in the early stages of development at Tesla and should be ready for unveiling next year. We believe the Tesla Semi will deliver a substantial reduction in the cost of cargo transport, while increasing safety and making it really fun to operate.”
Tesla began taking Semi orders in 2017, with production expected to start in 2019. At the time, pricing was estimated to be in the range of $150,000-$200,000 per Semi. However, recurring delays pushed the project back until the present.
It’s uncertain how many Semi reservations are held by Tesla, or how many trucks will be produced in 2022. However, one of the most prominent known reservation holders is PepsiCo, who ordered 100 trucks in 2017 in an effort to help electrify their fleet. In particular, the first Semis they received are expected to assist the in the eventual transformation of their Modesto, California Frito Lay factory into one that produces zero emissions.
Other prominent reservation holders, according to Kevin Armstrong of Not a Tesla App, include 130 ordered by Walmart; 125 by UPS; Anheuser Busch 40; and FedEx with 20.
This past week, PepsiCo confirmed they will receive the first of their Semis on December 1st, but did not not say how many units will be in that first batch. All eyes will be on them to see not only what these highly anticipated electric transport…
