In the latest heavy haul trucking industry news, Tesla Motors revealed their plans to launch electric-powered semi trucks in 2019. The founder of Tesla Motors, Elon Musk, revealed more specific information about their upcoming line of innovative trucks recently at a press conference.
The new Tesla Semi truck will be able to haul 80,000 pounds up to 300 or 500 miles at 60 mph. Besides that impressive feet, the truck only needs thirty minutes or less to fully recharge. A fully loaded electric semi can also go from zero to 60 mph in 20 seconds.
According to Musk, the semi truck will consume less than 2 kWh per mile. The semi operates with four independent motors on its rear axles. Drivers can monitor the truck’s safety features, including its automatic emergency braking features and lane departure warnings, using the touch screen inside the cab. These safety features can make it easier for truck drivers to safely navigate the road while hauling goods. Musk also revealed that the company designed the semi truck with built-in accommodations that will make it easier for truck owners to use autonomous driving in the future.
Industry insiders believe truck owners and operators may decide to invest in electric trucks and add them to their commercial fleets so they can enjoy lower fueling and maintenance expenses. Electric trucks can help offset the costs of rising labor costs.
However, critics still doubt the conversion from diesel trucks to electric ones will happen overnight in the commercial trucking sector. They are also cautious about the overall torque and hauling capacity of electric trucks. Tesla Motors is not the only automotive company focusing on building electric vehicles. Their announcement comes on the heels of other large automotive and technology companies announcing their plans to start manufacturing electric trucks so there will be more electric vehicle options.
