Tesla Semi in practice: Pepsi is satisfied with range

Regarding practical range, Tesla was conspicuously reserved with the Semi. Now, the NACFE (North American Council for Freight Efficiency) has released a video with test results. For this purpose, NACFE visited the site in Sacramento and interviewed employees about their experiences with the Semi.

Surprising: The range is higher than expected

The trucks are currently primarily used for local deliveries of less than 100 miles (approximately 161 kilometers), but three of them are also used for longer distances of up to 450 miles (approximately 724 kilometers). Even at full load, the range is "remarkable" and consumption is even lower than expected. According to official Tesla information, the Semi trucks consume "less than two kilowatt-hours per mile".

A surveyed Pepsi manager cited an average consumption value of less than 1.7 kilowatt-hours per mile, indicating Tesla has performed well. This translates to approximately 105.63 kWh/100 km, placing the Tesla Semi roughly at the equivalent range of what is seen in combustion engines.

Charging times? Back on the road in 45 minutes

However, there are still very contradictory reports regarding charging speed: While Tesla itself states a charging time of 30 minutes for up to 70 percent battery capacity, Pepsi employees' claims ranged from 20 to 45 minutes. One of the individuals interviewed mentioned 20-30 minutes from 5-10 percent to 95 percent charge, while another mentioned 45 minutes to go from 0 percent to 80 percent. Both of these would not be too long. Tesla itself states up to 70 percent battery capacity after 30 minutes.