Tesla has announced the pricing for its new Semi electric HGV – it will cost $180,000 for a model with a range of 500 miles.
Tesla claims the Semi will hit 60mph in 20sec when carrying an 80,000lbs load and 5sec without a trailer.
“The Tesla Semi will deliver a far better experience for truck drivers while increasing safety and significantly reducing the cost of cargo transport,” said the company.
Tesla said the Semi had fewer moving parts than a conventional diesel, with no engine, transmission or differentials to upkeep, so it requires less maintenance.
The truck, powered by four independent motors on the rear axles, has energy consumption of less than 2kw per mile, Tesla claims. It can climb a 5% gradient at 65mph, compared to 45mph for a diesel.
“Owners can expect to gain $200,000 or more in savings over a million miles based on fuel costs alone,” said the company.
Tesla said the cabin was designed around the driver, with full standing room, a central driving position and touchscreen displays on either side for navigation and blindspot monitoring.
The Semi can also travel in a convoy, linked autonomously to a lead vehicle. “Megachargers” will add 400 miles of range in 30 minutes. Production is due to begin in 2019.
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