Tesla has begun production of the Semi, its electric truck, at Giga Nevada. Unveiled in 2017, it aims to regain ground in the heavy transport sector. It will be available in two versions: the Standard Range, with a 548 kWh battery and 518 km of range, and the Long Range, with 822 kWh and a theoretical 777 km, close to the promised 805 km.
4680 nickel-manganese cells for both models 🚛
Both versions of the Semi use 4680 nickel-manganese cells, similar to those in the Cybertruck. This chemistry seeks a balance between energy density and production cost. The Long Range version aims to compete on long-distance routes, while the Standard Range focuses on regional trips. Production at Giga Nevada marks a key step in scaling this battery format for heavy vehicles.
Seven years of waiting for a truck that promised more ⏳
The Semi arrived with great fanfare in 2017, promising 805 km of range. Now, seven years later, the Long Range version falls 28 km short of that figure. It's not bad, but given the time it took to arrive, one would have expected it to at least cover the distance between Madrid and Barcelona without the driver having to get out and push.