There are a number of issues around Tesla 'Semi'. First, the payload continues to be a mystery. Then there's the long delays that seemed to be caused by a relatively unadventurous suspension system. 'Semi' could well be better off as a branded entity built by a third party using Tesla software / hardware.
In all other respects 'Semi' has the same issues of operator trust as any other new Class 8 market entry.
The overall BEV truck issue centres around the driveline - traction motor on axle or on chassis. Dynamically the better answer is the latter, but the unsprung weight is problematic for road damage. However, for powertrain integrity the answer is the integration into the axle unsprung mass.
As the article points out, truck (Class 8) market dynamics are much slower then passenger vehicle markets, and the product is expected to work flat out for at least 10 years with nothing more than planned maintenance... before going off to Africa / South America to do it all over again, without maintenance.
No mention at all of Tesla's Semi -- what ignorance and arrogance. Get your head out!
There are a number of issues around Tesla 'Semi'. First, the payload continues to be a mystery. Then there's the long delays that seemed to be caused by a relatively unadventurous suspension system. 'Semi' could well be better off as a branded entity built by a third party using Tesla software / hardware.
In all other respects 'Semi' has the same issues of operator trust as any other new Class 8 market entry.
The overall BEV truck issue centres around the driveline - traction motor on axle or on chassis. Dynamically the better answer is the latter, but the unsprung weight is problematic for road damage. However, for powertrain integrity the answer is the integration into the axle unsprung mass.
As the article points out, truck (Class 8) market dynamics are much slower then passenger vehicle markets, and the product is expected to work flat out for at least 10 years with nothing more than planned maintenance... before going off to Africa / South America to do it all over again, without maintenance.