Tesla Announces New Electric Semi Model

Two years after rolling out a prototype Class 8 electric semi truck, appropriately named "Tesla Semi," Tesla will unveil this week a new version that incorporates autonomous features. While some Tesla Semis have been spotted on America's roads, full production will not begin for another year or so.

Tesla announces new electric Semi model

Interesting article. I know people love his cars. I think if they can get charging stations and battery life close to what a driver would max on hours daily, I think he might have something.

People worry about the autonomous features as though it will be a job killer. It won't be. Much like the current Tesla's vehicles currently available it will offer "hands free" driving but it won't do the job for you nor will it remove the driver from the truck. In addition, you have to consider that the infrastructure isn't in place to accommodate an entire network of electric trucks, regardless of the range. For short haul, these trucks would be perfect. Could you imagine pulling into a gas station that's been fitted with charging stations but it takes the truck over an hour to charge up their batteries. Or different versions of charging and battery technologies so some charge faster than others. Today you pump gas as fast as the pump will go, everyone is at the mercy of the pump.

One of the guys I went to CDL school with was there because he has designed a new type of battery and is backed by Tesla to test out his battery in a truck himself. He said it would take him from coast to coast no charge! Obviously his battery isn't in production yet but he was pretty excited about it. Said the biggest difficulty with it is finding a replacement for the Jake brake because there isn't and engine. He agreed that autonomous trucks will not take over the industry, they may find a niche but won't take over.