Tesla’s Semi factory construction is progressing smoothly, but this hasn’t slowed down production of the all-electric Class 8 truck. Recent drone footage from Tesla’s Semi prototype facility near Giga Nevada suggests that more units of the all-electric long-hauler are being produced.
Tesla’s factories are always intriguing to watch, thanks to the company’s use of cutting-edge construction technologies that speed up the building process. This has made each Tesla factory a popular subject for drone enthusiasts, many of whom regularly share updates with the electric vehicle community.
The Tesla Semi factory is no exception, drawing the attention of @HinrichsZane, a regular contributor who posts updates on the facility’s progress. While their videos typically focus on the production plant for the Class 8 electric truck, a recent update revealed that Tesla is ramping up production of Semi prototypes.
In the latest video, 38 Tesla Semi units are shown parked outside the existing prototype facility, seemingly ready for customer delivery. While Tesla has not provided specific details about these vehicles, there is speculation that some may be headed to PepsiCo.
PepsiCo placed an order for 100 Tesla Semis in 2017. According to Dejan Antunović, PepsiCo’s Electrification Program Manager, who spoke at the 2024 IAA Transportation Expo in Hannover, Tesla has already delivered 86 units. These vehicles are currently deployed across three PepsiCo depots: 15 in Modesto, 21 in Sacramento, and 50 in Fresno.
With 38 Semis spotted in the recent footage, it’s highly likely that PepsiCo will soon receive the remaining trucks from their order. This would mark a major milestone for the Tesla Semi program and could pave the way for Tesla to start fulfilling orders from other customers.
