The Cost of Tesla's Electric Trucks: Insights into Affordability and Pricing

When it comes to the cost of Tesla's electric trucks, especially the CyberTruck, the landscape seems to shift with each announcement. There's a lack of firm pricing, which can leave potential buyers wondering about the true cost and value of these innovative vehicles.

Experimenting with Pricing and Configurations

Elon Musk, during various speeches, has discussed the potential range of the Tesla Semi, which has driven speculation about the cost. In a speech in November 2020, Musk hinted at impressive range capabilities:

Getting a range of 500 km [310 miles] is I think quite easy. And this is assuming a truck that is pulling a load of something in the order of 40 metric tons. So that's a heavy truck. For long-range trucking up to we think easily 800 kilometers [500 miles] and we see a path over time to get to about 1000 kilometers [620 miles] of range.

Musk emphasized that the Tesla Semi could be extremely competitive and compelling to trucking companies, but the cost considerations are only part of the equation.

Current Pricing and Reservations

As of now, there are three primary configurations available on Tesla's website for the Tesla Semi:

Additionally, Tesla requests a base reservation of $20,000, which can be completely refunded if you decide not to proceed with the purchase. Despite these offerings, the Tesla Semi is not without its challenges.

Pricing amidst Experimentation

Given the experimental nature of the Tesla Semi and its cousin the CyberTruck, it makes sense to consider a Full Maintenance Lease (FML). This strategy ensures that the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) is responsible for all maintenance, which can be particularly appealing for experimental vehicles. In a statement, Tesla highlighted the importance of this approach:

This cautious approach is understandable given the uncertainties surrounding the technology and potential regulatory hurdles.

Other Considerations

Furthermore, it's important to note that consumers will incur additional Federal Excise Tax (FET) due to the vehicle's classification as a class 8 vehicle. This tax is non-negotiable, adding to the overall cost of ownership.

Potential Cost Factors

Historically, the Tesla Semi has been pegged at a lower price point compared to equivalent ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) trucks, which is quite surprising. The base model is listed at $40,000, the mid-range option at $50,000, and the top-of-the-line variant at $70,000. These figures align with Tesla's strategy of making electric vehicles more accessible to a broader market.

To get a better understanding of the current pricing and reservation status, it's a good idea to visit the official Tesla website or watch the video presentations.

Ultimately, the cost of a Tesla truck, whether it's the semi-truck or the CyberTruck, is an evolving picture. As new models emerge, prices adapt, and technology improves, these vehicles continue to offer a compelling alternative to traditional ICE trucks, balancing environmental benefits with performance and affordability.