Here’s How The Tesla Semi Outperforms The Competition In Almost Every Way – SlashGear

The electrification of semi-trucks most directly impacts truck drivers, transportation companies, and businesses with large vehicle fleets. But if you’re thinking that’s where the effects stop, think again. Take a lap around your home and consider that nearly everything contained within likely spent at least some time on a semi-truck. Over-the-road transportation is a massive industry, and — even with 3D printers doing some pretty amazing things — it’s unlikely we’re going to dismantle the entirety of the freight delivery infrastructure any time soon.

While larger vehicles make up only about six percent of road vehicles in the U.S., they generate more than half of vehicle-related particle pollution (via American Lung Association). The electrification of semi-trucks could save an estimated 66,800 lives by 2050 from air quality improvements alone, and the $735 billion saved in public health benefits could fund the purchase of nearly 4 million Tesla Semi 500s at $180,000 each.

Just as Tesla was a primary driver of bringing electric passenger vehicles into the mainstream, its expansion into semis and pickups could help usher in a new era of electric commercial vehicles. And for those looking to order an electric semi-truck today, the choice is clear. The Tesla Semi will carry a typical payload while charging faster and going farther than any of the competition, and it’ll put six figures back in your pocket while it does it. Not a bad first entry into this space.