A major LTL carrier recently put a high-profile electric truck through its paces in a three-week test that included long distance and regional routes.
ABF Freight operated a Tesla Semi on what the company called "typical dispatch lanes" between the company's service centers in Reno, Nevada and Sacramento, California. The pilot also included regional runs in the Bay Area and rail shuttle operations, according to a statement from ABF's parent company, ArcBest.
ArcBest said the electric Semi logged 4,494 miles, averaging 321 miles per day with an overall energy efficiency of 1.55 kWh per mile.
The vehicle performed well across a variety of routes — including the 7,200 climb over Donner Pass — and generally matched the performance of its diesel counterparts, said ArcBest. Driver feedback was positive, with operators noting the vehicle’s comfort, safety and ease of use. Features like the center seat configuration, wide visibility and intuitive controls contributed to strong driver experience, the company said.
“We’re not looking for a truck that performs well ‘for an EV,’” said Matt Godfrey, ABF Freight president. “It must meet or exceed the performance and total cost of ownership targets of our most efficient diesel units. This pilot gives us great insight into the potential of EV semis in our operations.”
While the pilot demonstrated strong performance and driver acceptance, it also highlighted the need for continued development of charging infrastructure to support broader deployment across longer routes, according to ArcBest. The vehicle showed meaningful progress in areas such as range, charging efficiency and driver support, reinforcing the value of continued evaluation, said the company.
ArcBest said the pilot reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to exploring emerging technologies that support operational efficiency and environmental responsibility. It also said it ArcBest "will continue to assess the long-term viability of Class 8 EVs within its fleet, with a focus on leveraging innovation to improve efficiency, reduce emissions and deliver sustainable logistics solutions that create value for customers."
Tesla has struggled to get its Class 8 Semi into full production since it was unveiled in late 2017. Production began in 2019, but deliveries to customers did not happen until 2022. Full scale production is expected to begin next year.
I-694 lane closings planned
The closure will allow multiple MnDOT maintenance crews to:
- inspect and repair bridge decks
- repair and restripe pavement
- clean and repair storm sewer drainage structures
- remove vegetation
- repair and replace lighting
- remove graffiti on bridges and walls
During the westbound I-694 closure, motorists will detour on I-694, Highway 10, Highway 610 and Highway 169.
A similar maintenance effort is planned in the same area of eastbound I-694 in early August.
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