The Tesla Semi Refreshes with Cybertruck Styling Before Full-Scale Production Even Begins

Eight years after its debut, Tesla updates its electric big rig with a Cybertruck-inspired look, range improvements, and a production promise that is, once again, delayed.

Eight long years have passed since Tesla unveiled the Semi, its electric big rig, promising to revolutionize commercial hauling. Like the Roadster, the Semi is years behind schedule, with only a handful of units built so far. Nevertheless, Tesla has decided to refresh the Semi before its full-scale production officially begins. The update was revealed during the recent shareholder meeting, borrowing the new look seen on the Cybertruck and, later, the Model Y.

The most notable aesthetic change is the replacement of the original vertically oriented headlights with a full-width light bar. The bumper has also been reworked, incorporating new aero channels just ahead of the front wheels. Additionally, the truck now includes new cameras mounted just ahead of the doors. These elements supplement the side-view mirrors and the new, more angular design.

Increased Power and Charging Range

Tesla didn’t just give the Semi a new face; it also announced significant improvements under the skin. The company claims the truck is now more efficient and boasts an increased payload capacity. Its range remains listed at 500 miles (800 kilometers), achieving 1.7 kWh per mile. Quick math shows the Semi packs a roughly 850-kWh battery.

Regarding performance, the Semi retains its impressive 1,072 HP. The truck also keeps the ultra-fast charging capability of 1.2 megawatts (1,200 kW). This charging power allows the Semi to gain 70% of its range in just 30 minutes. Furthermore, Tesla has stated the truck is now “designed for autonomy,” though the company did not provide further details.

In typical Elon Musk fashion, he claims that volume production of the Semi will start next year. However, the promise is taken with caution: at the 2017 reveal, Musk said production would begin in 2019. The Semi is supposed to be assembled in a new factory in Nevada, whose completion date has been pushed from late 2025 to early next year.