The Tesla Semi has been delivered to its initial customers, but the exact production specifications of the vehicle remain largely unknown. However, a recent visit to PepsiCo’s Frito Lay facility in Modesto, California provided some valuable insights into the production specs of the Tesla Semi.
Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, highlighted the importance of sustainable long-haulers during the first deliveries of the Semi. He pointed out that semi trucks, despite making up only 1% of vehicles on the road, are responsible for 20% of emissions in the transportation sector. The Tesla Semi is designed to address this issue.
MotorTrend, an automotive publication, had the opportunity to visit the Modesto Frito Lay facility and check out the company’s Tesla Semi units. The facility is ideal for the Semi as it already uses other green vehicles such as BYD 8Y yard tractors, Peterbilt 220EV electric box trucks, and natural-gas-powered Volvo VNL trucks. The Tesla Semi fleet is used for regional out-and-back trips.
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During the visit, MotorTrend gathered information about the Class 8 all-electric truck from its drivers and Tesla representatives present at the location. Here are some of the key specifications of the Tesla Semi:
Powertrain
The Tesla Semi boasts a modified version of the Plaid tri-motor powertrain that operates in reverse. The front motor of the Model S drives the rear axle of the Semi, serving as its high-performance “highway drive unit.” The dual rear motors of the Model S Plaid are located on the rear axle of the Semi. Based on this, MotorTrend estimates that the Tesla Semi likely possesses the same 1,020 horsepower and 1,050 pounds-feet of torque as the Model S and Model X Plaid.
This estimate aligns with a statement made by a Tesla representative, who claimed that the Semi generates “three times the power of an average diesel semi.” The Freightliner Cascadia, the best-selling semi in the US, has a base model with 350 horsepower. Thus, the Tesla Semi’s horsepower of approximately 1,020 (three times the Cascadia’s base model) supports the estimate. It is worth mentioning that the production version of the Tesla Semi does not have a front trunk (frunk), unlike its prototype units.
Battery
The Tesla Semi, an all-electric Class 8 truck, boasts a 1,000 kWh battery pack, according to reports from drivers. The vehicle’s range, as listed by Tesla, is 500 miles on a single charge and Elon Musk emphasized its energy efficiency, with a consumption rate of only 2 kW per mile traveled.
Should these projections hold true, it is expected that the 300-mile version of the Semi would feature a battery pack of approximately 600 kWh. With such a substantial amount of batteries, Tesla must optimize its production process to ensure the profitability of the Semi.
Charging
According to a motoring publication, the Megachargers located at the Modesto facility have a power output of 750 kW, three times more than Tesla’s Supercharger V3 network.
Despite the thick cables, the Tesla Semi’s Megachargers are user-friendly compared to other DC fast charging networks. Recharging the Semi to 70% from near empty takes around 30 minutes, while a full charge to 100% takes approximately 90 minutes.
See also: Tesla Model S Plaid Becomes The Fastest Car In Real-life With 2.3s 0-60 mph Acceleration
Control
The Tesla Semi is equipped with a unique blend of digital and physical controls, making it a truly innovative vehicle. The centerpiece of the controls is its two infotainment systems, but it also has several buttons that serve important functions. The parking brake, trailer-brake air supply, and hazards are all activated with the push of a button. Additionally, the Tesla Semi has stalks that are similar to those in the Model 3 and Model Y, giving drivers a familiar experience. The steering wheel also features buttons that resemble those in the latest Model S and Model X, ensuring that drivers can easily access important functions.
Interior
The Tesla Semi cabin is spacious, like other Tesla vehicles. It has a 3×7 foot cabin with enough room for a 6-ft person to move around and stretch, according to MotorTrend. PepsiCo’s drivers are reportedly pleased with the Semi, finding it comfortable and handling like a car.
See also: Tesla targets to produce 100 Tesla Semi electric trucks this year
Other
The Tesla Semi has a unique dual infotainment system. The right display serves as the main unit, and the left displays truck-specific information such as tire pressure. The cabin windows can be opened, but not rolled down. A sleeper cabin option is available for customers. Confirmed by images, the Semi is equipped with Tesla’s Full Self-Driving computer.
