PepsiCo and Tesla: Breaking Ground with Electric Semi-Trucks

The tesla semi has always been a subject of intrigue and excitement, especially after the electric semi-truck made a headline in December 2022 when it delivered a payload from Fremont to San Diego, a journey that tested its capabilities.

Did Tesla Deliver the First Badass Big Rig Semi to PepsiCo?

In December 2022, Tesla handed over its first semi-truck to PepsiCo, transforming the landscape of electric semis. This move made a significant impact, not just for the company itself, but for the entire trucking industry.

The Semi made the journey from Fremont to San Diego, carrying an 81,000-pound load. The video from the release event showcased the truck accelerating up a 6% grade and successfully passing a regular diesel rig, a feat that signals a new era in long-haul transportation.

The semi-truck was able to charge from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes, highlighting its efficiency and the rapid pace at which it can be recharged, a crucial factor for long-distance travel.

Initial Impressions and Technical Details

While the initial release event might have emphasized the impressive 500 miles of range, it's important to consider the practical realities. Josh, a trucker, points out that the vehicle's performance was tested with a 32,000-pound load of concrete barriers, which is significantly lighter than what a traditional semi-truck might carry, typically around 15,000 pounds of snack chips.

The highlighted performance figure of 81,000-pound gross weight surpassed the legal limit by 1,000 pounds. This indicates that while the truck carries a heavier payload than diesel counterparts, it falls into a different category, with a 9-ton cargo capacity deficit compared to diesel trucks.

Furthermore, the weight of the battery itself, weighing 11,000 pounds and costing $21,000, poses a unique challenge. For Josh, as an asthmatic with a rare throat disorder, the long-term viability and reliability of this technology are crucial for a return to trucking. He sees promise but also challenges, particularly in California, where policies push for the use of electric vehicles while simultaneously limiting their charging options.

Real-World Implications and Future Developments

The Tesla Semi, as a part of PepsiCo’s test bed, is a step in the right direction for electric semis. However, for long-haul over-the-road (OTR) transport, which constitutes 50% of all trucking, the current model is not yet ready. These trucks, despite their impressive range and efficiency, need to overcome infrastructural limitations, particularly charging infrastructure. Tesla must make massive progress in establishing a robust network of charging stations to support these electric semis on the road.

In conclusion, while the tesla semi represents a significant milestone in the transition to electric semis, it requires further development and support from the industry and government to achieve widespread adoption. As for Josh, the journey is far from over; he remains hopeful and invested in the success of this new technology.