Image: Tesla
Tesla’s long-awaited next-generation Semi is back in the spotlight, this time testing in California as the company inches closer to volume production. New drone footage captured at Tesla’s Fremont factory shows a redesigned Tesla Semi out on the test course, offering one of the clearest looks yet at the electric truck that will soon anchor Tesla’s commercial vehicle ambitions.
The footage, shared by a longtime watcher of Tesla’s Fremont factory, shows what appears to be a production-intent version of the refreshed Semi undergoing testing around the facility. The truck closely matches the redesigned Semi Tesla officially revealed back in November, complete with a sleeker front end highlighted by a Model Y-style light bar. Compared to earlier prototypes, this version looks more refined and purpose-built, suggesting Tesla is now in the final stages of validation.
Under the skin, the changes are even more significant. According to details shared by Tesla, the updated Semi is around 15% more efficient than the original, consuming roughly 1.7 kWh per mile. Tesla is targeting a 500-mile range, increased payload capacity, and a design optimized for future autonomous operation. The truck is also expected to support up to 1.2 MW (1,200 kW) peak charging speeds via Tesla’s Megacharger system, along with up to 800 kW of drive power.
Visually, there are a few notable tweaks. The side windows no longer extend as far back, and there are heavy-duty metal anti-slip traction strips on the side steps — small but telling details that point to real-world fleet use. These updates align with Tesla’s broader push to make the Semi more durable, efficient, and easier to operate at scale.
This isn’t the first time Tesla’s refreshed Semi has been spotted recently. Last month, prototypes were seen testing near Tesla’s Semi facilities in Nevada, where the truck will eventually be built. The new Semi is expected to rely on Tesla’s in-house 4680 battery cells and be produced at the dedicated Semi factory near Gigafactory Nevada, which is targeting a capacity of up to 50,000 units per year once fully ramped.
With volume production expected to begin sometime in the first half of the year, this latest California sighting suggests Tesla is moving steadily toward customer deliveries.
