Series production of the Tesla Semi could be delayed yet again due to the ongoing trade war between the U.S. and China.
Per Reuters, both the Tesla Semi and the upcoming Cybercab rely on Chinese-made components that are now subject to pricey tariffs. Initially, Tesla was prepared to absorb the additional costs when President Trump imposed a 34% tariff on Chinese goods.
However, the EV manufacturer backed down from this commitment once the tariffs were raised to 84% on April 9. That figure has since increased to 145%.
As a result, plans are now disrupted to begin what was described as a 'trial production' of both vehicles in October. Tesla was aiming to begin Semi series production towards the end of 2025 at a still under construction Nevada assembly plant. That timeline is now potentially in jeopardy.
[Related: Tesla Semi chief reports major factory progress]
The Semi was first shown to the public back in 2017. There have been previous production delays but a limited number have been built and are currently undergoing pilot testing by the likes of DHL and PepsiCo.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk hasn't spoken publicly about the Semi's latest delay but he still very much has Trump's ear. For example, the president floated the idea last week to drop those auto and auto parts tariffs to 25% but nothing has been finalized.
There was a separate report earlier this month claiming the Semi's launch has not only been delayed but there'll also be a "dramatic" price increase.
[Related: Tesla Semi reportedly faces price increase, delayed again]
Tesla originally priced the Semi at $150,000 for the 300-mile range version and $180,000 for the 500-mile version. A "Founder's Series Semi" kicked off at $200,000. There's still no word about updated pricing but we can confirm Tesla continues to longer accept new reservations.
