In November of 2017, Elon Musk unveiled concept vehicles for Tesla semi-trucks. It wasn’t until 2022 that the first electric semi-trucks were delivered to PepsiCo in low volumes following several delays.

In April 2026, Tesla rolled out the first electric semis off its high-volume production line, seven years later than initially planned. High-volume production at its newly expanded Gigafactory was supposed to begin in 2024, but was pushed back to 2026. On September 24, Tesla is hosting a “Semi Rollout” event to inaugurate the 1.7-million-square-foot Semi factory.

Analysts expect Tesla to roll out between 5,000 and 15,000 electric semis in 2026. Tesla’s Gigafactory is expected to eventually produce 50,000 Class 8 Electric Trucks, the official name for its semis. Swedish transport company Einride has already placed a 500-truck order, marking the largest Tesla Semi truck order to date.

Tesla Semi Trucks

Photo: Tesla

Tesla boasts about the semi’s speed, which can reportedly accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5 seconds when unloaded and 20 seconds at its full 80,000-pound capacity. While Tesla’s website states that, when unloaded, it can accelerate from 0-60 in 5 seconds, during a visit the company told Top Gear that the number is 12.5 seconds. Regardless, that is still pretty quick for a semi truck.

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In addition to the semi’s speed, its reported charging capabilities are just as impressive. According to the company, its Megacharger network can deliver up to 1.2 MW of power to charge the battery from 20% to 80% in roughly 30 minutes.

Additionally, its design aims to make the semi more aerodynamic, optimizing range and efficiency. According to Tesla, it’s like driving any other Tesla.

“Three all-electric motors and an independent front suspension reduce road vibrations for a smoother ride,” the company states. “An electric powertrain delivers responsive handling and instant torque with no gears to shift.”

For a Standard Range model with about a 325-mile range, Tesla is reportedly asking for $260,000. For a long-range model, reports suggest Tesla is quoting $290,000.