Tesla Semi: Payload, Range, and Efficiency Breakdown
Introduction
The Tesla Semi is an all-electric Class 8 truck. It is redefining freight transport with zero-emission power. In this post, we'll be diving into the specs that matter to fleet operators: payload capacity, range impact, battery size, and cost. Whether hauling light loads like potato chips or heavy cargo like soda, let's see what the Tesla Semi offers. Let’s explore its real-world capabilities.
Payload Capacity: How Much Can It Carry?
The Tesla Semi handles Class 8 demands with a gross combination weight (GCW) of 82,000 pounds. This includes the tractor (approximately 27,000 pounds) and a standard 53-foot trailer (around 15,000 pounds empty). That leaves a maximum payload of about 40,000 pounds, matching industry standards for heavy-duty trucks. For volume, a typical 53-foot dry van trailer provides roughly 4,000 cubic feet of cargo space (53 feet long, 8.5 feet wide, 9 feet high), though refrigerated trailers may offer less due to insulation.
For context, low-density loads like potato chips (e.g., Fritos) weigh about 3-4 pounds per cubic foot, maxing out at 10,000-14,000 pounds for a full trailer. High-density loads like canned soda (e.g., Pepsi Cola) can hit the 40,000-pound limit, filling the trailer with around 1,920 cases of 24-packs at 21 pounds each. This Semi can haul loads, light or heavy.
Range and Efficiency: Load Weight Matters
The Tesla Semi’s range varies with payload weight, mainly due to increased rolling resistance. At highway speeds, aerodynamic drag accounts for 53% of energy use, rolling resistance 33%, and drivetrain losses 14%. Lighter loads boost efficiency, extending range, while heavier loads demand more battery power. The Semi’s battery pack, estimated at 850-900 kWh for the 500-mile version.
- Unloaded Range: With just the tractor and an empty trailer (40,000-42,000 pounds total), the Semi achieves 600-650 miles at 1.3-1.5 kWh per mile. Real-world tests with light loads have hit efficiencies as low as 1.55 kWh per mile.
- Fully Loaded Range: At 82,000 pounds GCW, the range drops to 420-500 miles, with energy consumption of 1.7-2 kWh per mile. PepsiCo’s tests with heavy loads confirm ranges around 450 miles, though Tesla’s official fully loaded spec is “less than 2 kWh per mile.”
Condition | Weight (pounds) | Range (miles) | Efficiency (kWh/mile) |
---|---|---|---|
Unloaded (Tractor + Empty Trailer) | 40,000-42,000 | 600-650 | 1.3-1.5 |
Fully Loaded (Max GCW) | 82,000 | 420-500 | 1.7-2.0 |
Potato Chips (Light Load) | 50,000-54,000 | 550-600 | 1.4-1.5 |
Soda (Heavy Load) | 80,000-82,000 | 420-450 | 1.7-2.0 |
Hauling Fritos and Pepsi: Real-World Scenarios
For a light load like Fritos, a full trailer (10,000-14,000 pounds) keeps the Semi’s weight around 50,000 pounds. This yields a range of 550-600 miles at 1.4-1.5 kWh per mile, as the low weight reduces rolling resistance. PepsiCo, which uses the Semi for Frito-Lay products, has reported over 450 miles in real-world operations, with initial plans citing 400 miles for conservative routes.
For a heavy load like Pepsi Cola, a full trailer hits the 40,000-pound payload cap, pushing the total weight near 82,000 pounds. This reduces the range to 420-450 miles at 1.7-2 kWh per mile. PepsiCo’s early tests focused on shorter 100-mile trips for safety, but recent data shows 450-mile ranges with beverage loads.
Battery Size and Cost
The Tesla Semi’s battery pack is massive, rated at 850-900 kWh for the 500-mile model, with a smaller 500 kWh pack for the 300-mile version. Pricing ranges from $150,000 to $200,000, depending on the range variant and options. Early production units have been reported as high as $415,000 in specific deals. Reservations require a deposit, and costs can vary based on configuration.
Conclusion
The Tesla Semi is transforming trucking, combining huge payload capacity with electric efficiency. Its 40,000-pound payload and 4,000-cubic-foot trailer handle everything from Fritos to Pepsi Cola. Light loads stretch the range to 600 miles, while heavy loads deliver a solid 420 miles, powered by an 850-900 kWh battery. At $150,000-$200,000, it’s a strong choice for fleets aiming to cut emissions and fuel costs. As Tesla scales production and deliveries, more real-world data come out, and more goods will be delivered while keeping the planet cleaner. Stay charged with CarsWithCords.net for more EV updates!