Early Reviews of Tesla Semi Highlight Strong Demand

Early reviews of the Tesla Semi indicate it could become a commercial success for the company. The truck may also affect the traditional truck manufacturing sector in ways similar to how the company's cars changed passenger vehicle production. Demand for the Semi appears strong.

California trucking firms have asked the state government for subsidies to help them buy more than 1,200 Tesla trucks. That total exceeds all applications for other electric trucks since the state's incentive program began in 2019.

Torres, a driver for Nevoya, a San Francisco-based trucking company, is a big fan of the Semi. He said the Semi was quieter than diesel rigs. He can run the air-conditioning while waiting to drop off a load. That is sometimes not possible with diesel trucks because California limits how long those vehicles can idle in residential areas or near schools and hospitals to minimize pollution.

The Semi will also be cheaper to operate. Diesel prices have risen around 50% in the last couple months, making battery power more attractive. Electricity is much cheaper per mile, even in California, where utility rates are relatively high.