Title: Jay Leno Takes Tesla Semi for a Spin: A First-Hand Look at the Electric Truck

Introduction

Renowned talk show host and car enthusiast Jay Leno recently had the opportunity to tour and test drive Tesla’s electric Semi truck. During his visit, Leno spoke with Chief Designer Franz von Holzhausen and Senior Manager of Semi-Truck Engineering Dan Priestley to learn more about the truck’s features and performance. This article provides an overview of Leno’s experience and the key insights shared by the Tesla team.

Smooth Acceleration and Impressive Power

Leno was impressed by the smooth and quick acceleration of the Tesla Semi. The engineers emphasized that making the big rig navigate traffic more like a car was a major focus during its design. Leno even had the chance to pull another Tesla Semi during the test drive, showcasing the truck’s power and capability.

Horsepower and Pricing

During the conversation, Leno inquired about the horsepower and pricing of the Tesla Semi, information that Tesla has not yet published. According to Priestley, the total system output can reach up to approximately 1,500 hp (1,118 kW), but Tesla customizes it based on customer requirements. Lowering the horsepower allows for increased longevity of the drivetrain and tires.

In terms of pricing, Priestley mentioned that it is comparable to other heavy-duty electric trucks. However, he emphasized that the real value lies in using the truck to save on operating costs, especially for customers with regional routes where the truck returns to its home base every day.

Impressive Maneuverability

Leno had the opportunity to complete a full U-turn in an intersection with the trailer in tow. The Tesla team highlighted that the Semi has a turning radius similar to that of the Model Y or Model 3, making it highly maneuverable in traffic.

Testing and Production

According to Priestley, Tesla has built “several dozen” production units of the Semi. While this number may seem small compared to the rest of the Tesla fleet, it reflects the ongoing testing and refinement process. The team is working to ensure that the Semi performs on par with diesel-powered trucks, and more testing is still required.

Conclusion

Jay Leno’s first-hand experience with the Tesla Semi provided valuable insights into the electric truck’s performance and features. The smooth acceleration, impressive power, and maneuverability make it a promising option for the transportation industry. While the horsepower and pricing details remain undisclosed, Tesla aims to customize the Semi based on customer requirements. As the company continues to refine and test the Semi, it is expected to become a game-changer in the heavy-duty electric truck market.

Image Credit: Jay Leno’s Garage

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