Jay Leno towed a Tesla Semi with a Tesla Semi

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In a recent episode of “Jay Leno’s Garage,” renowned television host and automobile enthusiast Jay Leno had the opportunity to test drive a Tesla Semi, the innovative electric semi-trailer truck that has been making waves since its unveiling in 2017. Accompanied by Tesla’s design chief, Franz von Holzhausen, and the senior manager of semi-truck engineering, Dan Priestley, Leno delved into the backstory of this groundbreaking project.

The inception of the Tesla Semi project can be attributed to the visionary thinking of then-Chief Technical Officer JB Straubel, who, interestingly, later founded the battery-recycling firm Redwood Materials. Straubel’s motivation stemmed from his belief that using diesel trucks to transport battery packs from Tesla’s Gigafactory in Reno, Nevada, to its vehicle plant in Fremont, California, contradicted the company’s commitment to emission-free transportation. With the support of another Tesla executive with prior experience at the truck manufacturer Freightliner, this idea evolved into a fully-fledged, production-bound venture, as recounted by Priestley.

Although Tesla lacked prior experience in the realm of commercial vehicles, the design of the Semi was influenced by extensive discussions with truck drivers. Notably, the front corners of the Semi were designed for easy repair, as these areas are most susceptible to damage. Moreover, in an effort to enhance accessibility and safety, designers incorporated suicide doors and a central driver’s seat, addressing the primary cause of trucker workers’ compensation claims, which is falling off a truck. The centered driver’s seat also improves visibility, a crucial aspect of long-haul trucking.

Tesla offers two versions of the Semi, boasting ranges of 300 and 500 miles, with remarkable energy efficiency at less than 2 kWh per mile. The truck’s DC fast-charging capability can replenish 70% of its range within just 30 minutes, allowing for efficient and timely deliveries. Impressively, Tesla is employing these electric trucks for battery transportation from Nevada to California, aligning with diesel trucks’ schedules. Additionally, the company touts significant savings of $200,000 over three years solely in fuel costs, rendering the Semi an attractive choice for operators.

Under the hood, a three-motor powertrain ensures the Semi’s ability to maintain highway speeds even when tackling a 5% grade, showcasing its robust performance. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 20.0 seconds while carrying a maximum gross weight of 82,000 pounds. Without the burden of a trailer, the tractor achieves 0-60 mph in just 5.0 seconds. Although these performance claims weren’t put to the test during Leno’s drive, the real highlight was the Semi’s ability to tow another Semi, resulting in a combined gross weight of approximately 60,000 to 70,000 pounds.

Originally slated for production in 2019, the Tesla Semi encountered delays due to factors such as limited battery cell availability, supply chain challenges, and the prioritization of Model Y production at Tesla’s Texas factory. Nevertheless, Tesla commenced deliveries in December 2022, with Priestley revealing that around 60 to 70 trucks have been built since then. The company plans to gather feedback and make necessary refinements before scaling up production. Notably, Tesla’s Nevada facility is undergoing a substantial $3.6 billion upgrade to support expanded Semi production, emphasizing the company’s commitment to revolutionizing the world of commercial transportation.

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More about Tesla Semi Innovation

• Tesla Semi Official Website
• Jay Leno’s Garage Official Website
• Tesla Semi Unveiling
• Tesla’s Gigafactory
• Tesla’s Innovation in Transportation
• Tesla Semi Performance Specifications
• Tesla’s Commitment to Sustainable Transportation