Tesla launches mass production of the Semi electric truck: specs, price and range

Nearly ten years after its unveiling, Tesla is preparing to begin full-scale mass production of its Tesla Semi electric tractor-trailer. The model was first unveiled back in 2017, but due to technological and manufacturing challenges, the start of large-scale production has been postponed multiple times. It has now been announced that mass production of the Tesla Semi will begin in 2026, and the truck will be available for purchase to the general public.

Tesla Semi Enters Large-Scale Production

Tesla Semi electric tractor-trailers are already being assembled at the company’s factory in Nevada, but since late 2022, they have been produced in limited batches for testing. The first vehicles were delivered to major corporate clients—PepsiCo, Costco, and Walmart—who tested the model under real-world logistics conditions.

In 2026, Tesla plans to transition to full-scale production, which will allow it to expand deliveries to the global electric freight transport market. The company’s CEO, Elon Musk, previously announced the production launch, and details of the project have been confirmed on Tesla’s official website.

Tesla Semi Specifications: Power, Range, and Charging

The new Tesla Semi electric tractor-trailer is equipped with a three-motor powertrain delivering 1,088 l. s. (800 kW) of power. Thanks to this, the heavy-duty truck is capable of impressive performance:

• 0–100 km/h acceleration without a trailer—about 5 seconds;

• 0–100 km/h acceleration with a full load—about 20 seconds;

• the maximum gross combination weight is up to 37 metric tons.

The Tesla Semi’s range depends on the version:

• base model—up to 523 km;

• Long Range version—up to 800 km on a single charge.

The tractor supports ultra-fast charging with a power output of up to 750 kW. In 30 minutes, approximately 60% of the battery charge can be restored, which is critically important for commercial transport and long-distance routes.

The price of the Tesla Semi has risen since its announcement

The cost of the electric truck has risen significantly compared to initial plans. While Tesla quoted a price of $150,000–$180,000 in 2017, the expected price tags are now as follows:

• starting at $260,000 for the base model;

• about $300,000 for the Long Range version.

The price increase is due to rising battery costs, technological upgrades, and the transition to mass production.

Why the Tesla Semi Is Important for the Electric Truck Market

The launch of mass production of the Tesla Semi could significantly transform the freight transportation market. Electric trucks promise:

• lower fuel and maintenance costs;

• lower CO₂ emissions;

• high efficiency in logistics and urban transportation;

• support for ultra-fast charging infrastructure.

Major logistics companies are already testing the model and considering it as an alternative to diesel trucks.

Conclusion

Tesla is finally moving the Semi project from the experimental stage to full-scale production. In 2026, the electric truck will hit the market with a range of up to 800 km, over 1,000 l. s. of power, and a starting price of $260,000. Despite the higher price, the model remains one of the most anticipated new releases in the electric truck segment and could be a key step toward the electrification of freight transportation.

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