Simply called Semi — derived from the term semi truck, referring to the articulated assembly of the tractor and trailer — Tesla's new truck, or rather super truck, brings with it truly impressive numbers and much more optimistic than what the rumors had promised.
Super Performance
Just 5.0 seconds from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) these are numbers that we associate with sports cars, not trucks. According to Tesla, it is three times less than current comparable diesel trucks.
More impressive is being able to perform the same measurement in just 20 seconds when fully loaded, that is, when carrying just over 36 tons (80,000 pounds). In comparison, again with a Diesel truck, it takes about a minute.
And the claims do not stop there, as the US brand claims that the Semi is able to climb gradients of 5%, loaded, at a stabilized speed of 105 km/h, way above 72 km/h for the Diesel truck.
super aerodynamic
The Tesla Semi's aerodynamic penetration coefficient (Cx) is impressive: just 0.36. This compares favorably with the 0.65-0.70 of current trucks, and is even lower than the 0.38 of a Bugatti Chiron, for example. Of course, as a truck, it loses in the front area — the other dimension necessary to calculate aerodynamic performance — but it's still surprising.
A low aerodynamic resistance is essential to obtain lower consumption, which in the case of the Tesla Semi, means that it will be able to cover more kilometers. The American brand announces about 800 km of autonomy , loaded and at highway speeds, which translates to a consumption of 2 kWh per mile (1.6 km). Naturally, the Semi is equipped with several energy recovery systems, being able to recover up to 98% of the kinetic energy.
According to Tesla, autonomy is more than enough to cover most transport needs. Close to 80% of freight travel in the US is less than 400 km.
super charging
The big question about Tesla Semi's viability was, of course, about loading times. Tesla has the solution: after superchargers, it presents the megacharger, which in 30 minutes can supply enough energy to the batteries for a range of 640 km.
A network of these chargers strategically installed in truck stations, allowing recharging during truck drivers' breaks or when loading/unloading what they are transporting, opens up prospects for 100% electric long-haul freight transport.
super interior
When Tesla says that the interior is designed “around the driver”, it took it literally, putting the driver in a central position — à la McLaren F1 — flanked by two giant screens. The central position ensures excellent visibility and the Tesla Semi comes equipped with a series of sensors that eliminate blind spots. As we can see, no rearview mirrors — will it be able to be approved like that?
super security
The batteries, placed in a low position and ensuring a low center of gravity, are reinforced for better protection in the event of a collision. Sensors also detect trailer stability levels, reacting and independently assigning positive or negative torque to each wheel and acting on the brakes.And being a Tesla, you couldn't miss Autopilot. Semi has autonomous emergency braking, exit warning system and lane maintenance. Autopilot also allows you to travel in a platoon. In other words, a Semi can lead several others, which will follow it autonomously.
Super reliability (?)
Theoretically, without engine, transmission and exhaust and differential treatment systems, the Tesla Semi's reliability should be far superior to that of comparable diesel trucks. And maintenance costs are expected to be significantly lower.
But all reports indicate that their cars are far from that utopia. Can Tesla Semi convince?
Even though maintenance/repair costs may not be as low as the brand claims, it is indisputable that fuel costs will be considerably lower. Electricity is definitely cheaper than diesel. According to Tesla, the operator can expect a savings of 200 thousand dollars or more (at least 170 thousand euros) for every one million miles traveled (one million and 600 thousand kilometers).
Production is scheduled for 2019 and the Tesla Semi can already be pre-booked for USD 5000 (4240 euros).
