Tesla Semi Proves Its Worth in Recent “Run on Less” Event

The North American Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE) recently organized the “Run on Less” event, and the results have solidified the Tesla Semi’s reputation. In the event, Tesla’s all-electric Class 8 truck showcased its range and charging efficiency, surpassing competitors like Freightliner and Volvo, both established truck manufacturers.

John Boesel, CEO of Calstart, an organization in the clean transportation industry, highlighted Tesla’s leadership in performance and range. He also noted Tesla’s unique superfast charge capability, which sets it apart from the competition.

The trucking research group conducted an extensive study during the event, tracking data related to charging infrastructure, charge management, truck performance, cost of ownership, and more. Over the course of more than two weeks, 22 trucks completed real orders across North America.

Data from the event revealed that Tesla Semi trucks, operated by PepsiCo, averaged more miles per day than any other vehicle. The Semi displayed the ability to cover approximately 400 miles and recharge to about 80 percent state of charge within just 45 minutes.

PepsiCo’s best-performing Tesla Semi impressively averaged about 574 miles per day during the 18-day event. Following the Tesla Semi, the next non-Tesla vehicle with the highest daily mileage was WattEV’s Nikola Tre BEV at around 255 miles per day. OK Produce’s Freightliner eCascadia averaged about 181 miles per day, and Performance Team’s Volvo VNR Electric came in at approximately 175 miles.

One of PepsiCo’s Tesla Semis even achieved an exceptional 1,076 miles in a single day, using three fast-charging sessions at 750-kilowatt chargers, reaching 47 percent, 89 percent, and 52 percent battery charge, respectively.

Notably, 60 percent of the miles driven during the 18-day event carried a gross vehicle weight of more than 72,000 pounds, closely resembling the 82,000-pound limit for zero-emission semi tractor-trailer combinations, a weight typical in the logistics industry.

A key takeaway from the event is that electric trucks have demonstrated their ability to match the operational efficiency of their diesel counterparts. Drivers successfully utilized chargers at various depots throughout the day, dispelling misconceptions about the range of trucking batteries. Nearly half of the trucks, including Tesla, made use of “second charge events” during their shifts.

While the Tesla Semi’s performance during the “Run on Less” event is certainly encouraging, it’s worth noting that Tesla has only produced the Semi in limited quantities, estimated at 60-70 units, according to Tesla’s Senior Manager of Semi-Truck Engineering, Dan Priestley. To compete with established truck manufacturers, production would need to undergo a substantial ramp-up.