Costco, the wholesale giant, has become the latest customer to embrace sustainable transportation, taking delivery of the all-electric Tesla Semi for its logistical needs.
The Tesla Semi, introduced two years ago, initially saw limited adoption. However, with PepsiCo serving as its inaugural customer, Tesla gathered crucial data to showcase the advantages of electrified tractor-trailers over traditional combustion engine trucks.
The move by Costco signals a significant step forward for the Tesla Semi in mainstream adoption. Despite being in “Pilot Production,” according to Tesla’s most recent quarterly Earnings Call Shareholder Deck, the vehicle’s production is ongoing.
Tesla semi at Costco in Santa Cruz. Driver loved the drive over highway 17. And down it! pic.twitter.com/0oVWnFNQY8
— Joaquin (@Joaquin03114400) May 7, 2024
Initially produced at a small facility near the Tesla Gigafactory in Sparks, Nevada, Tesla is in the process of constructing a new production facility for the Semi. The construction, estimated at $3.6 billion, has received around $330 million in tax breaks.
Mass production of the Tesla Semi, however, is still some time away. Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, stated during the Earnings Call, “Our first vehicles are planned for late 2025 for external customers starting in 2026.”
Musk also provided an update on the Semi’s engineering, highlighting the company’s focus on achieving cost-effective high-volume production based on insights gained from their fleet and pilot programs.
