Tesla and Jay Leno Just Had the Most Honest Semi Conversation Yet


If you haven't watched the latest Jay Leno's Garage episode featuring
the Tesla Semi, clear 47 minutes and go do that. Tesla Chief Designer
Franz von Holzhausen and Semi Program Director Dan Priestley sat down
with Jay and just talked openly, about all of it. CHECK OUT teslasemi.com/video

The Redesigned Tesla Semi Shed 1,000 Pounds


Priestley opened with a big one: the redesigned Semi lost about

1,000 lbs compared to the previous version. Less weight means
more payload capacity, better efficiency, and lower energy consumption.
Jay said it himself during his drive hauling another Semi unit:
"I don't feel like I'm pulling anything."

Aerodynamics: Below a Bugatti Veyron


Franz set a personal goal to get the Semi's drag coefficient below
that of a Bugatti Veyron. He got it to 0.4 Cd a 7%
aerodynamic improvement over the previous model. For an electric truck
where range lives and dies by air resistance, that number matters.


What's New on the 2026 Tesla Semi


Fully electric steering assist
Cybertruck actuators for added strength
48-volt architecture throughout
4680 battery cells rated for 1 million miles

Real-World Fleet Data From 13.5 Million Miles


Tesla has a few hundred Semis running right now with
3.5 million miles of combined real-world data. One unit alone
has hit over 440,000 miles. Pilot operators report 95% uptime
with 80% of issues resolved within 24 hours and half sorted in under an hour.


Demand for the Tesla Semi Is at an All-Time High


Priestley didn't hedge demand has never been stronger. Rising diesel
prices are accelerating fleet interest faster than ever. High-volume
production and first deliveries remain on track for 2026.