What you need to know:
- Tesla Semi design updates revealed with a redesigned chassis, new headlights, smaller windshield, and improved aerodynamics.
- Improved efficiency and payload capacity boost the Semi’s performance for commercial fleets.
- Production and testing progress confirm around 70 units built, ongoing California tests, and mass production next year in Nevada.
- Pricing and global availability remain unclear, with original 2017 prices $150K–$200K and worldwide fleet plans underway.
Tesla has revealed design updates for its upcoming fully electric Class 8 truck, the Semi, featuring a redesigned chassis, new headlights, and several performance improvements.
While the Semi wasn't a major focus during Tesla's annual shareholder meeting, CEO Elon Musk reaffirmed that the long-awaited truck—originally unveiled in 2017—is on track to enter volume production late next year at a new Nevada factory with a production capacity of 50,000 units annually.
[Related: Tesla Semi program manager gives most detailed update on its BEV to date]
The manufacturer also confirmed that the latest version of the Semi is now more efficient, offers an increased payload capacity, and has been redesigned with autonomy in mind.
Without question, the most noticeable exterior update is the front end, now boasting a Model Y and Cybertruck-style headlight design. The once expansive wrapped windshield has been noticeably reduced in size as well. Tesla has also fitted the Semi with a new front bumper, while the roofline now features a smoother, more rounded contour.
Compared to the original design (right), the updated Semi (left) sports a redesigned headlight and front bumper, a more compact wraparound windshield, and enhanced aerodynamic features.Tesla
These design tweaks have improved the Semi's aerodynamics, boosting efficiency to 1.7 kWh per mile. Tesla added that the updated Semi now supports a higher payload capacity, allowing fleets to transport more goods per trip.
So far, an estimated 70 Semi units have been produced, most of which have been delivered to major preorder customers such as PepsiCo and DHL. Tesla stopped accepting new Semi reservations in August 2022.
Testing of the electric truck has been ongoing in California's Modesto and Sacramento regions. Musk has also confirmed that the Semi is intended to be a global vehicle. The Semi has been integrated into several corporate fleets, most notably Frito-Lay and PepsiCo, with both companies reporting favorable results.
[Related: DHL declares: 'Tesla Semi is ready for prime time']
When it was first unveiled, Tesla priced the Semi at $150,000 for the 300-mile version and $180,000 for the 500-mile variant, with a limited "Founder's Series" starting at $200,000. However, those figures are now eight years old, and Tesla has yet to release updated pricing.
So what does the Semi cost today?
No one outside the company knows for sure. Fleet operator Ryder has suggested the price has seen a "dramatic" increase, but with Tesla's internal media department long dissolved, there's no official comment or clarification available.
