Veteran Driver praises Tesla Semi’s Power and Maneuverability, Hoping to Retire in the Truck
When it comes to reviewing a new heavy-duty vehicle like the Tesla Semi, the most critical feedback comes from seasoned professionals who command these machines daily. The Tesla Semi has been put through its paces by a veteran driver from the renowned US trucking company SAIA, and the feedback is overwhelmingly positive.
The senior driver, featured in a recent video showcasing SAIA’s real-world testing, expressed his admiration for the Tesla Semi by stating, “I hope I retire in this truck.” This powerful endorsement gives us a profound insight into the genuine appreciation that real truckers have for Tesla’s innovative vehicle.
The testing scenario was anything but mundane, with the driver navigating the Semi through challenging city routes, handling pick-ups, and deliveries with 10 to 15 stops daily. SAIA, a nationwide Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) carrier with an extensive fleet of over 7,000 trucks, provided the perfect backdrop for putting the Tesla Semi to the test in real-world, demanding conditions that evaluate its durability, maneuverability, and overall ease of use.
After a strenuous day behind the wheel, the driver, Tom Sterba, was effusive in his praise for the Semi, highlighting its exceptional design and performance. The remarkable smoothness and power of the electric motor stood out to Tom, allowing the Semi to effortlessly accelerate and navigate through traffic without any lag, a crucial factor in the competitive LTL environment.
Furthermore, the Tesla Semi’s surprising maneuverability was a game-changer for Tom. Unlike traditional two-axis trucks with bulky dimensions and large turning radii, the Semi displayed exceptional agility and a tighter turning circle, making it a breeze to navigate crowded city streets and maneuver through tight loading docks.
Not to be outshined by its superb performance and maneuverability, the Tesla Semi also wowed Tom with its cutting-edge technology features. The presence of two displays, built-in navigation, and crystal-clear camera clarity left a lasting impression on the experienced driver, who quickly grew fond of the Semi’s advanced tech capabilities.
SAIA’s comprehensive evaluation of the Tesla Semi extended beyond individual driver experiences to practical considerations like range and charging efficiency. Real-world testing confirmed that the Semi boasts an effective range of over 500 miles and can be charged from 5% to 80% in just 45 minutes. SAIA drivers reported charging the Semi on a weekly basis during LTL operations, highlighting its efficiency and minimal maintenance requirements.
This enthusiastic endorsement from a seasoned trucker underscores the Tesla Semi’s superior performance and signifies a significant validation of its capabilities in the trucking industry. As Tesla transitions from pilot production to high-volume manufacturing, the positive feedback from real truck drivers speaks volumes about the Semi’s appeal and functionality on the road. Don’t miss the full video below to witness the Tesla Semi in action.