Tesla has delivered its Tesla Semi, an electric semi-truck, to a new customer for a pilot program that has reportedly exceeded expectations, pushing the electric vehicle “well beyond expectations.”
The Tesla Semi program has experienced significant delays since its unveiling in 2017, with production initially expected in 2020. However, it only entered production in late 2022.
Despite entering production over a year ago, the program has remained limited. In October 2023, it was reported that Tesla had only built about 70 Tesla Semi trucks, primarily using them internally and with one main customer: PepsiCo.
Tesla was expected to increase production of the truck at a Gigafactory Nevada expansion announced last year, but construction only recently began.
Now, Tesla has delivered electric semi-trucks to another customer, Martin Brower (MB), a large logistics company specializing in restaurant supply chains.
MB confirmed that it used two Tesla Semi trucks in a pilot program earlier this year. A group of five MB drivers was trained to operate the Tesla Semi, which features a center seat configuration and other design features to enhance driver visibility and safety. The drivers provided positive feedback on the vehicle’s performance.
One driver, Casey Kamp, commented on the Tesla Semi, stating, “The Tesla Semi rises above any other tractor with mobility, center seat configuration, and precise movement that allows the driver to navigate safely.”
Megan Yamaguchi, Assistant Transportation Manager at MB, said that the Tesla Semi trucks were pushed “well beyond expectations,” adding, “Our drivers had no problem learning the systems and maximizing the features that set these tractors apart. We’ve been able to push these tractors well beyond expectations and look forward to our electric future.”
The Tesla Semi can travel up to 500 miles with a full load, which Tesla claims is competitive with diesel semi trucks with a significantly lower cost of operation.
Dan Priestley, Tesla Semi lead engineer, commented on MB’s test program, stating, “These demonstrations with the Tesla Semi have provided great product feedback on how to make the best class 8 truck while also showing customers how it can fit in their operations. Thanks to Martin Brower and our other very patient customers for working with us to test, develop, and refine the Semi. Keep an eye out for them on the road!”
MB operates hundreds of trucks based at dozens of distribution centers. The company plans to review the results of the pilot program and move to electrify its fleet from there.
