Tesla has a reputation for producing electric vehicles — but now it aims to expand its portfolio by including trucks alongside its range of sports cars.
The Tesla brand is renowned for its innovative endeavors. From introducing an entirely electric vehicle range to presenting unique features, the prestigious car manufacturer consistently astonishes.
As Tesla car models keep making a global impact, the company is directing its attention towards pioneering the next fleet of vehicles. It progressively broadens its scope, recently unveiling the Tesla Semi – a vehicle they’ve introduced as the future of trucking.
Tesla Semi Truck’s Beginnings
Introduced by Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk in November 2017, the Tesla Semi is the firm’s first move into the commercial trucking sector, a purely electric vehicle equipped with an ‘autopilot’ feature. This function aids in semi-autonomous driving and assures safety for truckers on extensive trips.
Moreover, Tesla asserts that due to the reduced number of systems to upkeep, the Tesla Semi can result in fuel cost savings of over $200,000 across two years for the operator. Tesla assures that the truck will remain operational for a million miles, given its ability to function with only two of its four independent motors.
Specifications and Features
Similar to its automobiles, Tesla has set up some distinctive design elements and technological attributes for the Semi:
Exterior
The Tesla Semi, potentially the future truck, possesses a unique design unheard of in its class. It is characterized by an enormous wraparound glass that forms the truck’s front sloping area and extends to its doors.
Unlike traditional diesel trucks with large grilles for air intake necessary for their massive engines, the Tesla Semi proudly upholds Tesla’s lineage of electric cars. This distinction is clearly seen in the Semi’s design as it incorporates an air intake passage at the bottom front, leaving the nose section sealed. This unique design feature ensures the battery is kept cool effectively.
Additionally, the Semi has one axle at the front and twin axles at the rear. The tow hitch and trailer bed are also situated at the back of the truck. In its entirety, the Semi’s design focuses on achieving aerodynamic efficiency to facilitate smoother rides.
Power and Performance
Like other Tesla vehicles, the electric batteries of the Tesla Semi operate using a tried and tested method. These batteries can power the vehicle for an impressive distance of approximately 300 to 500 miles before a recharge is required at a designated charging station.
It utilizes four engines, identical to those found in the Model 3, which independently power four wheels across the rear axis. This design choice eliminates the need for differentials and allows the Tesla Semi to maximize traction control, ultimately enhancing stability on the road.
It also features a tri-motor powertrain and an electrical system capable of 1000 volts. This large-scale electric system perfectly meets the truck’s high charging power requirements.
Its three autonomous motors present instant torque in the Tesla Semi electric vehicle. Remarkably capable, the truck can accelerate from 0 to 97 kilometres per hour within just 20 seconds. The vehicle can uphold stable highway speeds, even on inclined terrains and when fully loaded.
Tesla Semi Truck Range
When it comes to trucks, particularly those used for commercial purposes and long-haul journeys, the range of electric vehicles (EVs) has been a topic of considerable debate. Electric car range anxiety has been associated with EVs, but Tesla has stepped up to address these concerns with the Tesla Semi, providing a commendable range for long-haul operations.
The Tesla Semi comes in two versions, each offering an impressive range. One version boasts a range of approximately 483 kilometers, while the other version takes it up a notch with an astonishing range of about 805 kilometers. Notably, these ranges can be achieved while the truck is fully loaded with a weight of 37,195 kilograms.
Tesla EV Semi Interior
The interior of the semi-truck is equally impressive. The driver’s seat is strategically positioned at the center, offering unparalleled road visibility from the expansive windshield. In addition to the driver’s seat, two foldable seats are conveniently placed behind, ensuring comfort and convenience for passengers.
Tesla has gone above and beyond with the Tesla Semi’s interior technology. Dominating the dashboard are two large touch screens strategically placed at the extreme corners. These advanced screens serve multiple purposes, including tracking the vehicle’s location and facilitating seamless communication. With just a touch, drivers can access vital information and stay connected on the go.
But it doesn’t stop there. The Tesla Semi is equipped with a groundbreaking predictive maintenance feature. This intelligent system informs drivers about the vehicle’s maintenance needs, ensuring optimal performance and minimizing downtime. When a service is required, the driver is promptly notified, allowing for proactive maintenance and smooth operations.
Safety Features
For large-scale vehicles such as this, security takes utmost precedence. The Tesla Semi possesses numerous state-of-the-art safety enhancements designed to safeguard the driver and passengers. Among a variety of safety precautions that the Tesla Semi incorporates are:
- Immediate emergency brakes
- Preliminary collision alerts
- Automated lane-maintenance assistance
- Improved grip control system
The advanced grip control mechanism efficiently restricts jackknifing– an abnormal folding that large vehicles such as trailers and trucks can experience. This can significantly reduce potential accidents involving the semi-truck. Furthermore, even if one of the motors malfunctions, the semi can continue to be operated.
Tesla Semi: What Makes it Unique?
Musk claims that Tesla is engineered to function “like a bullet,” deviating from the “barn wall” concept of diesel vehicles, resulting in a 0.36 drag coefficient instead of the usual 0.65 for a standard truck. This provides superior aerodynamics than a supercar, stated Musk at the unveiling. The vehicle also features side flaps that adjust to the trailer’s dimensions to enhance efficiency.
