Tesla Semi truck unveiled alongside updated Roadster

News

Elon Musk has revealed details of the long-awaited Tesla Semi truck, claiming that it will be cheaper to run from day one than comparable diesel lorries.

 Tesla Semi

At an event in Los Angeles which also saw the launch of a new Tesla Roadster, CEO Musk claimed the Semi will be capable of 0-60 mph in five seconds with no trailer attached. Towing the maximum weight allowed on US highways (about 36 tons), the truck can reach the same speed in 20 seconds. According to Tesla, the Semi will have a range of 500 miles when fully loaded and travelling at highway speed.

“We also have four independent motors,” Musk told the crowd at SpaceX’s Hawthorne facility in southwest LA. “So there’s a motor on each of the rear wheels, and an independent front suspension, so it’s incredibly comfortable to drive this truck.”

The Semi’s enhanced autopilot features will include automatic emergency braking and lane keeping, as well as forward collision warning. On top of this, the truck will also be equipped with a system to prevent jackknifing.

Register now to continue reading

Thanks for visiting The Engineer. You’ve now reached your monthly limit of news stories. Register for free to unlock unlimited access to all of our news coverage, as well as premium content including opinion, in-depth features and special reports.  

Benefits of registering

  • In-depth insights and coverage of key emerging trends

  • Unrestricted access to special reports throughout the year

  • Daily technology news delivered straight to your inbox

Register
Or continue by

Signing in with your registered email address