Tesla (TSLA) has delivered its first electric semi-trucks five years after first announcing the vehicles.
Tesla originally unveiled the semi-truck design in December 2017. However, production was delayed by the pandemic and battery cell supply issues, the Austin, Texas-based company said.
The first electric semi-trucks were delivered to PepsiCo (PEP), whose Frito Lay division plans to use them for food deliveries in select U.S. markets.
Tesla has said that its semi-trucks have a driving range of 500 miles on a single battery charge. The company also designed the semi-trucks with the steering wheel in the center of the cab and touchscreens located on either side of the driver.
While there are several other electric delivery trucks currently available, Tesla’s semi-trucks have some unique high-tech features, including a fast-charging system and a battery with greater range than its competitors.
Tesla said that its new fast-charging technology will also be used to power its Cybertruck, the consumer pick-up truck that Tesla is currently developing.
According to the American Lung Association, medium- and heavy-duty trucks represent about 6% of on-road vehicles in the U.S. but generate 26% of the greenhouse gas emissions produced from transportation in the country.
Tesla’s stock is down 51% this year at $194.70 U.S. per share. PepsiCo’s stock is up 8% year-to-date at $185.90 U.S. a share.
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