Tesla announced on Thursday that it has begun delivering its long-awaited Semi electric trucks to customers, marking a significant milestone nearly nine years after CEO Elon Musk first revealed plans for the vehicle and following several years of production delays due to supply chain disruptions [1]. The announcement was made at Tesla's plant in Sparks, Nevada, where executives confirmed that the first customers, including PepsiCo, DHL, and U.S. Foods, would receive their vehicles this week. Trucks bearing these companies' logos were displayed at the event, and representatives were invited on stage [1].
The Semi is designed to target the commercial freight hauling market, offering a long-range variant capable of 500 miles on a single charge and a standard version with a 325-mile range. Tesla director of Semi truck engineering, Dan Priestly, emphasized that the 500-mile range has been validated by customers in real-world conditions [1]. The launch comes as diesel prices have reached record highs, increasing costs for trucking firms and potentially boosting demand for electric alternatives [1].
While Tesla did not disclose specific production volume or pricing details during the webcast event, the company reiterated its goal to build 50,000 Semis annually at the Nevada facility. However, Tesla has adjusted its guidance and no longer explicitly states that high-volume production will be reached this year [1]. The first Semis delivered in late 2022 were produced on lower-volume pilot lines, with the first truck from the high-volume line rolling out in April [1].
Tesla has recently secured a new order for 2,500 Semis from a coalition of major cargo-owning shipping companies, including Microsoft and PepsiCo, according to the nonprofit Catalyst Mobility. This order nearly doubles the existing fleet of electric Class 8 trucks in the U.S. Additionally, Swedish freight technology company Einride announced a deal last week to add 500 Semis to its fleet [1]. Despite the positive news, Tesla's stock (TSLA) closed at $372.11, down 1.54% on the day [1].
Elon Musk, who was not present at the event, stated in a recorded message that the waiting list for the Semi is already significant and recommended placing more orders [1].
CONCLUSION
Tesla's commencement of Semi truck deliveries marks a pivotal expansion into the commercial freight market, supported by substantial new orders from major corporations. Despite ongoing production uncertainties and a dip in share price, the event signals strong demand and growing momentum for Tesla's electric trucking initiative.