Tesla Semi-Keynote: New Features, Charging Locations & Battery Upgrade

How quickly does a 40-ton truck charge to 500 miles range in 30 minutes? This was revealed by Tesla at the Tesla Semi Keynote at the ACT Expo 2025: With a new battery, 1.2 MW megawatt charging, and 46 planned charging locations, the Tesla Semi is set to electrify long-haul logistics starting in 2026.

Gigafactory Nevada – Foundation for 50,000 Trucks Annually

Own Semi Plant: Construction of a separate production hall with a capacity of 50,000 units per year.
Ramp Plan: Test production in 2025, ramp-up over 2026 – starting with internal logistics operations, followed by customer deliveries.
Job Boost: More than 1,000 new jobs to operate manufacturing around the clock.

Range Variants & Cabin Upgrade

500 mi and 300 mi Version

Tesla confirms two series ranges – around 800 km and 480 km according to the US cycle.

Better Field of View

Revised mirror geometry
Lowerable side window for interactive workflows at ramps and check-in terminals

e-PTO – Electricity Instead of Diesel for Refrigerated Trailers

With the new Electric Power Take-Off, operators tap directly into the high-voltage battery:

Variable voltage range for cooling units, lifts, or pumps
Zero emissions during stationary operation, quieter and low maintenance

Battery Redesign & Domestic Cell Production

Optimized Pack: Lower construction height, identical range thanks to efficiency gains
Cost Advantage: Scalable production reduces $ / kWh
US Cells: Complete supply chain in North America, protects against import duties

Megawatt Charging System – Charging with 1.2 MW

Tesla relies on the MCS Standard for the Semi:

Up to 1.2 Megawatts charging power (≈ 500 km in ~30 min)
V4 hardware shares components with Superchargers, but remains Semi-exclusive
Compact design enables combined locations for cars and trucks

46 public MCS locations by 2027

Tesla plans comprehensive US coverage along key freight routes:

46 charging hubs under construction or in the approval process
Positioning in industrial areas and on interstates for minimal detours
Goal: Lowest energy costs on the market, to encourage fleets to switch to e-mobility

Why the Tesla Semi is reshaping the industry

Total operating costs decrease thanks to cheaper energy and less maintenance.
Driver acceptance increases: quieter, vibration-free, top acceleration.
CO₂ balance significantly improves CSR metrics for large freight companies.
Future-proof through MCS network and over-the-air updates.

Conclusion & Outlook

With a clear roadmap, powerful infrastructure, and innovative features like e-PTO, the Tesla Semi is within reach by 2026. Those who invest early in megawatt charging could secure decisive cost advantages. We will keep you updated on construction progress and initial customer fleets – stay charged!