Tesla expands with the first electric Semi-truck to PepsiCo

More than five years after revealing the electric Semi-truck, Tesla has handed over the first of its kind to PepsiCo’s Frito-Lay in Modesto California. 

The food and beverage giant has reserved one hundred trucks and experts to deploy an initial 15 by the end of the year. PepsiCo said in a statement that, “the company has been aiming to reduce fuel costs and emissions” since the initial announcement of the trucks back in 2017. 

Even though electric passenger cars receive the most attention, the decision to electrify trucking could have a significant impact on an industry known for its high emissions and high fuel prices. Therefore, in addition to improving operations, adding driver-aid capabilities could save on labor costs.

The Semi will be Tesla’s fifth vehicle, joining the S, X, 3, and Y passenger variants. Moreover, the debut carries on Musk’s long-standing promise to enter the heavy-duty vehicle market. The truck’s design is based around the driver, with central seating positions and plenty of room for standing and storage. 

Whereas Musk mentioned that the Semi has an estimated range of 500 miles on a single charge and its own Tesla charger, but he hasn’t revealed anything about production or cost. Musk also mentions the Semi will result in a significant decrease in cargo transportation costs while boosting safety measures.

Musk is tentatively planning on producing 50,000 Semis for North America in 2024. Putting to work freight between the company’s factories in Nevada and Fremont and back again so that engineers can continuously refine the product. 

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