At the recent ACT Expo clean transportation conference held in Las Vegas, Nevada, Dan Priestley, Senior Manager of the Tesla Semi program, shared exciting updates about the expansion of PepsiCo’s Tesla fleet. The ongoing success of Tesla’s Semi trucks in real-world applications has paved the way for this significant increase in fleet size.
“PepsiCo’s pilot program with our Tesla Semi has exceeded expectations, particularly noted during last year’s North American Council for Freight Efficiency’s Run on Less event,” Priestley explained. During this event, Tesla Semis showcased their capability by traveling more miles per day on average than their diesel counterparts, a testament to their efficiency and robust performance.
Debunking Myths and Setting Records
Contrary to some reports, the company Semis at PepsiCo have been tasked with more than just light hauls. “It’s sometimes characterized that they’re hauling chips, but in fact, it’s actually the PepsiCo division that has more trucks hauling beverages on a regular basis,” Priestley clarified.
This correction highlights the trucks’ ability to handle significant loads, comparable to those of traditional diesel trucks. The performance of the Tesla Semi was particularly notable during the Run on Less event, where one of the vehicles achieved an impressive feat of traveling 1,076 miles in a single day.
This journey included three quick 750-kW fast charging stops, demonstrating the Semi’s ability to handle long hauls with relatively short charging breaks. “60% of the miles driven during the days when the Tesla Semi was tracked were with a gross vehicle weight of over 70,000 pounds, close to the 82,000-pound limit for zero-emission Class 8 trucks,” highlighted an Automotive News report.
Expanding Tesla’s Semi Operations
The success with PepsiCo is just the beginning for Tesla’s ambitions in the electric truck market. “We are building more trucks this year. As I mentioned, we’re delivering another 50 currently to PepsiCo, and then we’re putting more trucks into our operations.
We’re actually set to deliver some this year to some other customers as well,” said Priestley. This expansion reflects a growing confidence among major freight and logistics companies in electric transport solutions, driven by the need for more sustainable operations. company continued innovation and delivery of high-performance electric trucks are setting new standards in the industry, promising a cleaner, more efficient future for freight transport.
Conclusion: Tesla’s Pioneering Electric Future
Company’s progress with the Semi and the expansion of its partnership with PepsiCo represent a significant leap forward in the adoption of electric vehicles in commercial use.
As Company continues to refine its technology and expand its reach, the transportation industry watches closely, anticipating the broader implications for global logistics and environmental sustainability. Its journey with the Semi is not just about transforming one company’s fleet but about leading a shift towards zero-emission transportation on a global scale.
