Redesigned Tesla Semi truck hits the road for testing

Tesla has been spotted testing its redesigned Semi truck in Fremont, California. This marks the first public sighting of the updated electric big rig, captured by drone footage. It also comes at a time when the EV maker is preparing for higher production volumes.

The new Semi features a light bar similar to the Model Y for a modern and sleek look. It uses less energy at 1.7 kilowatt-hours per mile, a 15% improvement over the old version. This helps cut costs for truck operators.

The truck keeps its 500-mile range on a full charge, even when loaded. It has a drive power of 800 kilowatts and can charge at a peak speed of up to 1.2 megawatts. Other changes include shorter side windows, anti-slip steps, and some hidden upgrades for better performance.

The company confirmed this redesign in November 2025. It also announced that the new Semi is more efficient, can carry a larger payload, and is built for self-driving technology. Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, announced on X that volume production will begin soon, aiming for 50,000 units a year. He also noted the truck will be available for global customers.

Redesigned Tesla Semi spotted testing (Source – MetGod/YouTube)

The Semi uses Tesla’s 4680 battery cells, the same as in the Cybertruck, improving power and range. Tesla broke ground on a Semi factory in Reno, with production starting last year and ramping up now. First deliveries went to Pepsi in late 2022, proving the truck’s real-world use.

Musk said the Semi is better than diesel trucks. He advocated that the Tesla Semi can offer quick speed-up, strong hill climbing, and safety tools to stop jackknifing.

One of its early testers, PepsiCo, said they prefer it and don’t want to switch back. The reason for that could be its range and load capacity. In December 2022, Tesla shared a video clip where a loaded Semi went 500 miles on one charge at 81,000 pounds total weight. Another test hit 1.2 kilowatt-hours per mile with average cargo.

Tesla Semi Factory

Production

Tesla Semi has its own factory in Reno, Nevada, which is near completion, with updates confirming stamping shop setup, tool installation in areas like powder coat and material conveyance, and heavy manufacturing equipment arrivals.

Tesla is aiming for 50,000 units per production, which was initially expected to start in 2025 but slipped to 2026. It’s also expected that the customer deliveries could start this year. However, an official date is looming in limbo.