The battle between Tesla and Nikola in the zero-emissions trucking world is thrilling. Tesla Semi’s all-electric power goes head-to-head with Nikola’s hydrogen-fueled trucks. The clash is driving innovation, breaking tech barriers, and shaping a greener future. Who will emerge supreme in the clean transport transition? Let’s read this interesting analysis…
Tesla’s Next Gen Semi Trucks
Tesla is ramping its green goals with a $3.6 B investment to expand Gigafactory Nevada at the Truckee-Reno Industrial Center. This major expansion introduces two key additions: a 100 GWh 4680 Cell Factory for advanced batteries and a High-Volume Semi Factory for Tesla’s new electric trucks. They want to establish Gigafactory Nevada as the main for manufacturing unit for EV trucks.
Tesla disclosed that combination trucks account for approximately 18% of U.S. vehicle emissions. The new cell factory will manufacture 1.5 million batteries annually for light-duty vehicles. Media reports say that till the end of last year, Tesla manufactured 70 Semi trucks, using them mainly within the company and for its partner PepsiCo.
We can comprehend the status of the Tesla Semi from the VP of Vehicle Engineering at Tesla- Lars Moravy’s statement.
“We’re finalizing the engineering of Semi to enable like a super cost-effective high-volume production with our learnings from our fleet and our pilot fleet and Pepsi fleet, which we are expanding this year marginally. In parallel, as we showed in the shareholders’ deck, we have started construction on the factory in Reno. Our first vehicles are planned for late 2025 with external customers starting in 2026.”
Tesla Semi-All Electric Specifications
Nikola Promises Zero Emissions Class 8 Hydrogen Truck
Talking of Nikola, the company has already sold 72 units of Class 8 Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trucks through its HYLA brand. That is insanely impressive as they have exceeded their sales target of 60 units for Q2, 2024. Notably, their shares also shot high with this massive sales volume. Nikola CEO Steve Girsky exuberantly said,
“We have maintained our 2024 momentum with solid wholesale numbers, new customers such as Walmart Canada, and repeat customers like 4GEN and IMC, purchasing vehicles through our dealer network. We are firmly on the field and are continuing to secure our first-mover advantage in zero-emissions Class 8 trucks in North America, as well as with our HYLA hydrogen refueling solutions.”
Nikola Class 8 Hydrogen Powered Truck Specifications
The market is supercharged with Tesla Semi and Nikola Hydrogen Class 8 competition. Some burning questions arise with these new launches…What will customers choose and what is the best model for net zero? Let’s do some comparison and analysis here.
Who will Win the Battle of the Trucks; Hydrogen or EV for a Net Zero Future?
Nikola’s team has emphasized the growing demand for zero-emissions trucking solutions among customers who aim to fulfill their shipping needs and meet their ESG goals. And they highlighted the shift’s significant impact. One heavy-duty zero-emission truck reduces CO2 emissions as much as removing 23 gasoline-powered cars annually.
Both Nikola and Tesla are advancing clean transport with zero emissions. The difference is Nikola’s latest trucks run on hydrogen, while Tesla Semi relies on all-electric power.
Off Infrastructure, Charging, and Refueling…
There are 76 hydrogen refueling stations in the U.S., of which 66 are installed in California. Nikola must ramp up way higher to be a long-term player. Even though, hydrogen refuels faster, locating a proximal station might be challenging.
On the contrary, Tesla’s supercharger network is extensive and the EV charging infrastructure is easily accessible. Charging time is significantly reduced with advanced battery and charging technology. This makes EVs more energy-efficient, offering a quick choice to customers. Overall, Semi wins bonus points here with Musk claiming
“Semi Trucks are about to revolutionize the road!”
While the Tesla Semi hasn’t hit the market yet, Nikola’s Class 8 Hydrogen Trucks are already cruising the roads. This gives Nikola ample time to earn the trust of its valued consumers and solidify its market position. As for Tesla’s Semi, its on-road performance remains speculative for now.
P.S. Refer to the images to compare and understand the specifications, sourced from Nikola and Tesla’s official website.
In conclusion, both transport giants are sprinting toward achieving net zero goals. Tesla and Nikola are positioned for a win-win scenario in terms of technology and infrastructure. No wonder, both can harmoniously co-exist in the clean transport sector. As Tesla Semi makes its debut, customers will have the opportunity to determine their preferred choice.