Initially planned for production in 2019, the Tesla Semi faced multiple delays. However, recent progress indicates significant advancements toward achieving large-scale output. For the past two years, Tesla has been developing this new facility near Gigafactory Nevada, where it manufactures battery packs and drive units for its North American electric vehicles. A Tesla spokesperson stated: “We have finished building the factory and are now working on deploying the production lines to meet our production goals.”
Tesla previously targeted volume production for 2025 but has revised its timeline, planning to begin production by late 2025 and scale up in 2026. The company aims to produce 50,000 units annually at full capacity, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable transportation solutions for the commercial sector.
One early customer, Ryder, reported challenges with the Tesla Semi program, including further delays and a significant price increase. Ryder now anticipates receiving its first trucks in late 2026 and has reduced its pilot program from 42 to 18 trucks due to the higher costs. A Ryder representative noted: “The price has increased dramatically, leading us to adjust our pilot program.” When Tesla unveiled the Semi in 2017, it listed prices of $150,000 for a 300-mile range model, $180,000 for a 500-mile version, and $200,000 for a Founder’s Series. While price increases have been reported, Tesla has not officially updated these figures since launching the production version in late 2022.
The Tesla Semi factory’s completion marks a key milestone in expanding electric vehicle technology to heavy-duty transport. By focusing on domestic production in Nevada, Tesla aims to enhance supply chain efficiency and support the adoption of clean energy in logistics. The project is expected to create jobs and contribute to economic growth in the region while advancing the transition to sustainable freight transportation.
