The Tesla Semi continues to turn heads in the freight world. ArcBest, a major player in the logistics industry, has just wrapped up a pilot program testing the electric semi-truck in over-the-road operations — and the results were promising.
Over a three-week period, ArcBest’s ABF Freight division put the Tesla Semi through its paces on routes between Reno, Nevada and Sacramento, California, with additional runs in the Bay Area and for rail shuttle operations. The electric truck logged nearly 4,500 miles during the test, averaging 321 miles per day and delivering an impressive energy efficiency of 1.55 kWh per mile.
Notably, the Tesla Semi handled challenging terrain, including the steep climb over Donner Pass, without issue. Drivers praised the truck’s comfort, safety, and intuitive features, including its central seating position, expansive visibility, and simplified controls.
“We’re not looking for a truck that performs well ‘for an EV,’” said Matt Godfrey, president of ABF Freight. “It must meet or exceed the performance and total cost of ownership targets of our most efficient diesel units. This pilot gives us great insight into the potential of EV semis in our operations.”
However, ArcBest also noted that more work is needed on charging infrastructure to enable wider deployment of electric semis on longer routes.
The Tesla Semi has already attracted major corporate customers. PepsiCo announced a significant expansion of its Tesla Semi fleet last year, signaling growing interest in electric freight solutions across the industry.
As more companies like ArcBest explore electric trucks, the Tesla Semi looks increasingly poised to play a key role in the future of freight.
