TESLA SEMI PRESENTATION BY VP OF TRUCKS JEROME GUILLEN

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Jerome Guillen, VP of Trucks at Tesla, presents the highly anticipated Tesla Semi, emphasizing its performance, range, and cost-efficiency. The Semi boasts impressive acceleration and the ability to maintain highway speeds on steep grades, with a target range of 800 kilometers (500 miles) for a gross vehicle weight of 36 metric tons. Aerodynamics are a key focus, achieving half the drag of diesel trucks. The vehicle features four independent motors for superior traction control and a unique central driver's seat for enhanced visibility and comfort, complemented by a digital display system and camera-based mirror vision. Charging is presented as a non-issue, with plans for a network of "mega chargers" capable of delivering 650 kilometers of range in just 30 minutes, faster than driver rest breaks. Safety is enhanced by autopilot features, including automatic emergency braking and lane keeping. Reliability is underscored by a guaranteed 1.6 million kilometer drivetrain and simplified architecture with fewer complex parts than diesel trucks. Tesla aims for the lowest cost of ownership, projecting a significant advantage over diesel trucks, especially in Europe due to higher diesel costs. The "convoy" feature, allowing trucks to follow autonomously, further reduces ownership costs. While initially targeting a 2019 launch in the US, with Europe to follow, the presentation highlights Tesla's commitment to innovation and efficiency in the trucking industry.