Pepsico order largest so far
Pepsico was required to put down a $20,000 deposit for each of the units. Earlier the down payment was just $5,000. The Pepsico order is the largest so far.
The order represents just a small percentage of the over 10,000 trucks operated by Pepsi. It may be many years before electric semi trucks make up a large part of the global fleet.
At this stage the vehicles ordered just represent pilot projects for the different firms placing the orders.
Other firms also have already placed orders
Walmart has placed orders for fifteen of the semi trucks in the US and Canada. The company said it hoped that it will help Walmart lower emissions noting: “We have a long history of testing new technology — including alternative-fuel trucks — and we are excited to be among the first to pilot this new heavy-duty electric vehicle.”
Earlier Meijer a supermarket chain in Michigan also placed $5,000 down for four trucks. J.B Hunts Transport Services a top trucking company said it had reserved multiple trucks.
CEO of Hunts, John Roberts said: “Reserving Tesla trucks marks an important step in our efforts to implement industry-changing technology.” Roberts claimed that the trucks would be most beneficial on local routes and intended to use them first on the west coast of the US.
Loblaws the Canadian grocery chain also ordered some of the trucks.
Budweiser brewer Anheuser-Busch ordered 40 trucks
James Sembrot, head of Anheuser-Busch’s head of logistics strategy said that the company was constantly trying make its supply chain more sustainable, efficient and innovative: “This investment in Tesla semi-trucks helps us achieve these goals while improving road safety and lowering our environmental impact.”
Tesla says trucks will be available in 2019
Tesla has a long history of pushing back deadlines for production of its vehicles.
At present the company is behind in production of its new Model 3 sedan that it hopes to mass produce. It began production in June but by October1st had produced just 260.
Cost and features of the new semi
The base price is expected to be $150,000 for a truck with a 300 mile driving range on one charge or $180,000 for one with a longer range of 500 miles. The special “Founders Series” will require payment up front of $200,000.
Although diesel trucks are cheaper and can go further Tesla claims that the electric trucks will pay for themselves in just two years through saving on fuel costs.
As a recent Digital Journal argues new battery technology will be needed for Tesla to keep its promises.
Tesla trucks still will not have the driving range of diesel trucks and will no doubt first be used on shorter routes.
There is no passenger seat. The driver sits in the middle allowing the truck to have a more aerodynamic shape.
Tesla claims the truck can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles an hour in just 20 seconds even with a full load.
The company claims there will be shorter delivery times and savings for the trucking company.
Trucking companies will be watching closely the results of the pilot projects. However, they may have to wait a considerable time before they can make their first observations.
