Imminent Arrival Of Tesla Semi Electric Truck

Back in 2017 Tesla showed the public what was to become the target of all eyes, since for the first time it aspired to mass market a long-range electric truck at a really competitive price. Its arrival was initially announced for 2019, although after multiple delays due to many different problems the Tesla Semi is closer than ever, and will begin deliveries at the end of this year or at the beginning of 2023. On this occasion Tesla has renewed the photo gallery on its official website, where all the new specific details of the final production electric truck can now be clearly seen.

To tell the truth, preliminary images and views of the Tesla Semi truck have actually been leaking for several years. The model has been spotted many times on the roads, on tours of the Tesla factories or even recharging its batteries at a post in Nevada, just to give a few examples. That is why, as a matter of fact, the final aesthetics or look of the vehicle has caused very little surprise; however, as compared to the prototype presented 5 years ago it has some important differences.

One of the most obvious differences (among many others) is the incorporation of large, very visible rear-view mirrors. In addition to this, much more extensive glass surfaces can be seen throughout the vehicle; the modification of the headlights (somewhat lighter than other elements), as well as the incorporation of the famous clearance lights or the elimination of the fairing in the rear wheels.

The cabin has also received substantial changes, although in general terms it has actually changed much less than its exterior looks. The final, definitive model continues to present the double horizontal screen on both sides of the steering wheel, which now have a more generous apparent size. The steering wheel itself has also been updated with the latest design of the firm's models and their respective dials at the endings. Finally, the console that is located to the right of the driver also incorporates new elements - in addition to the already presented cup holders - such as some specific buttons or more holes to store objects.

However, in general terms, the model has not changed its appearance excessively beyond making it more useful and practical for its driver on a day-to-day basis. Its aesthetic remains recognizable when compared to the 2017 concept model.

Just a few days ago - for no apparent reason - Tesla withdrew the possibility of booking the model on its official website; there are two possible explanations for this: having a sufficiently high number of reservations so far, or a change in prices that could be possibly announced later this month or next. In any case, in just a few months Tesla should give new, full details about it.

The Tesla Semi will come in two versions: 300 and 500 mile range. First, the most capable variant (500 mile range) is expected to land at an estimated starting price of $180,000, although this could very possibly change in the coming months; then the cheaper, more affordable alternative (300 mile range) will be launched with an estimated starting price of $150,000.

All images courtesy of Tesla Inc.

Nico Caballero is the VP of Finance of Cogency Power, specializing in solar energy. He also holds a Diploma in Electric Cars from Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands, and enjoys doing research about Tesla and EV batteries. He can be reached at @NicoTorqueNews on Twitter. Nico covers Tesla and electric vehicle latest happenings at Torque News.