Saia LTL Freight has added two Tesla Semi trucks to its fleet.
The partnership with Tesla represents another step forward in sustainable transportation as Saia becomes one of the early testers of Tesla’s electric semi-trucks.
“Our partnership with Tesla underscores our dedication to evolution while staying true to the values that have guided us for the past century,” said Executive Vice President of Operations Patrick Sugar. “As we celebrate 100 years of Saia, we’re focused on building a sustainable and innovative foundation for the next century.”
A statement from the company said the introduction of the Tesla Semi into Saia’s fleet reflects not only the company’s forward-thinking strategy but also its dedication to sustainability and meeting the evolving needs of customers. This collaboration aligns seamlessly with the company’s mission to provide top-tier service while minimizing its environmental footprint, according to Saia.
“This collaboration enhances our operational capabilities and exemplifies how Saia is positioning itself for a future where innovation and sustainability drive success,” added Sugar.
The company said that during a demo period held earlier this year, Saia tested the Tesla Semi in its operations with the tractor evaluated on its range, payload capacity, grade performance, and driver comfort.
"We were very impressed with the Tesla Semi as it demonstrated an ability to handle both local and longer haul applications while still delivering notable power and efficiency. During a demonstration earlier this year, we achieved 1.73 kWh per mile," said Sugar. "Our drivers were equally impressed, noting the smooth acceleration, comfortable design, and its ability to maintain speeds on steep inclines, even while hauling heavy payloads. This feedback underscores the enormous potential of the Tesla Semi."
