Tesla has recently unveiled an updated design for the Tesla Semi, which includes a redesigned chassis, new headlights, and a more aerodynamic shape. You probably have not seen a lot of Tesla Semis on the road, I haven’t, so now you can expect more coming with Elon Musk reaffirming volume production that is planned for next year, following delays since its 2017 unveiling. The new Semi is more efficient, supports a higher payload, and is actually designed for autonomy, showing that it has long-term plans for self-driving freight. It does seem very early to have autonomous semi’s to me because there is a huge number of drivers, and it would be so hard on the economy and other things if a lot of them didn’t have jobs, so hopefully the autonomy helps the drivers, doesn’t replace them.

You can also see some visible changes, like the smaller curved windshield, the rounded roofline, the new front bumper, and the new lightbar across the front that most modern Teslas have. Tesla claims that there is better efficiency, even though real-world tests have shown 1.55-1.73 kWh per mile, which is almost the same as earlier numbers. Dan Priestley, Tesla’s Semi program lead, hinted that there are a lot of internal improvements based on pilot fleet learnings. These tiny design updates don’t affect the truck too much, but you will definitely be able to tell now what is an old Tesla Semi and a new one.

The production for this new semi will happen at Tesla’s Nevada factory, with first builds starting in early 2026 and more production later that same year. This timeline represents another delay, something that Tesla has struggled with since announcing the Semi a while ago. Other EV truck manufacturers like Freightliner, Volvo, and BYD are also expanding in this space, making the competition more competitive. Since Elon Musk is focusing on autonomy and efficiency, it makes them a little different, and it will also keep the Semi aligned with Tesla’s broader AI-driven strategy.

Tesla’s original pricing for the Tesla Semi was $150,000 for the 300-mile version and $180,000 for the 500-mile version, but that was announced in 2017. Reports say that customers have seen dramatic price increases, though Tesla has not confirmed any actual figures. Even if the prices rise, lower operation costs and dedicated short-route potential could make it more practical for many fleets. Industry experts see near-term success for the Semi in controlled fleet environments, not cross-country hauling yet. I wonder if companies will actually pay more upfront if it means that they save money long-term and have cleaner fleets.

Do you think Tesla’s focus on autonomy will make the Semi stand out in the EV trucking market? How important do you think design changes like better aerodynamics for long-haul efficiency are for the Semi? Would you trust a self-driving electric truck on the highway next to you anytime soon? Let us know in the comments!

Source: Electrek Images: Tesla

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