The Tesla Semi, tested by several companies since its release, recently impressed global logistics giant DHL during a two-week trial. DHL shared its findings, revealing that the electric Class 8 truck significantly outperformed expectations, especially in terms of energy efficiency and range.
DHL tested the Tesla Semi on its regular operating routes based out of Livermore, California, covering more than 3,000 miles. One of the standout tests involved a 390-mile journey with the truck fully loaded at a gross weight of 75,000 pounds. This test confirmed the electric vehicle’s ability to handle typical DHL payloads over long distances on a single charge.
During the trial, the Semi averaged 1.72 kWh per mile at speeds over 50 mph for more than half of the test period. This exceeded both DHL’s and Tesla’s performance expectations. Tesla had originally estimated that the Semi would achieve energy consumption of “under 2 kWh per mile,” with a full-load range of 300 to 500 miles.
“Maximizing range and efficiency is crucial to proving that long-haul electric vehicles can perform equivalent work to diesel,” noted Graham Caroll, DHL’s Head of Business Development for semi-trucks. “We’re excited to see DHL confirm the benefits of the Semi’s advanced technology and driver-centric features in live commercial operations.”
Following these successful tests, DHL is now evaluating how to integrate the Tesla Semis into its fleet when full-scale production begins at Tesla’s Gigafactory Nevada in 2026. The trial adds to a growing list of companies sharing positive feedback on the Tesla Semi’s performance, including PepsiCo, which has been operating the trucks in hubs across California.
During the IAA trucking conference in Germany, Tesla Semi Engineering Head Dan Priestley also highlighted impressive fleet performance data, noting that the Semi’s pilot fleet has achieved a 95-percent uptime. Over 4.65 million miles have been driven since the Semi’s pilot programs began, with one Semi unit alone covering more than 248,000 miles in just 18 months.
