Tesla presented its Semi truck at the IAA Transportation in Hanover and announced further details on the planned launch in Europe. Dan Priestley, Tesla's chief engineer for the Semi program, explained the current developments and the path for the European market in a keynote speech.
Already on the stand of Tesla the electric semi-trailer attracted a lot of attention. Visitors were even able to experience short test drives in the Semi in another hall. The high demand and broad interest show that Tesla's plans for the European market are eagerly awaited.
Successful pilot fleet in the USA
Priestley reported on the Semi's success to date in the USA, where PepsiCo is the first major customer to have 36 of these vehicles in operation. Originally Tesla start general deliveries at the end of 2022, but initially opted for a "pilot fleet". This will be expanded further in 2024, and other US customers are also to be supplied shortly.
Tesla has proven in the USA that the Semi is convincing in daily operation. At PepsiCo, it is operated at full load and the fast megawatt charging has been tested as safe and reliable. The range of up to 800 kilometers is particularly impressive - this enables longer journeys without charging interruptions.
European version expected from 2026
Adaptations are also planned for the European market in order to meet the specific requirements here. Priestley emphasized that the Tesla Semi was designed from the outset so that it can be used worldwide. The dimensions and weight already comply with the applicable European regulations. However, he made it clear that a large-scale market launch in Europe will not take place until 2026 at the earliest.
Currently building Tesla a new factory in Nevada, which is expected to achieve an annual capacity of more than 50,000 semi-trucks. Only after production has been scaled up in the USA will Tesla supply the European market. Although this delay dampens hopes of an early market launch, Priestley assured that the European version will be in no way inferior to the American customers.
Technical improvements and future prospects
A highlight of the presentation was the announcement of technical improvements planned for the European version of the Semi. These include independent front suspension, which is intended to improve both ride comfort and driving stability. In addition Tesla developed a new metal construction that provides space for a sleeping cabin. This cabin makes it possible to use the Semi efficiently for longer distances in Europe.
In addition Tesla, plans to further optimize the loading process of the Semi. Instead of scheduling separate charging times, the Semi will be charged during the loading and unloading times, which will significantly increase efficiency. This system will be supported by Tesla's Megawatt Charging System (MCS), which was specially developed for the Semi.
Outlook for the future of the Tesla Semi in Europe
Although European customers will still have to wait until 2026 for the Semi Tesla is convinced that the market launch will be a great success. Priestley held out the prospect that further cost reductions would be possible through mass production, which Tesla could be passed on to customers. The Semi's energy efficiency is also to be further improved, reducing overall energy consumption to around 1 kWh per kilometer.
The IAA Transportation showed once again that Tesla is taking a decisive step towards sustainable transportation solutions with the Semi. With the scaling of production and the planned improvements, the Semi will not only revolutionize the US market, but also change the European truck sector in the long term.
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