Why Tesla’s new semi-trailer truck pricing is a game changer
Tesla has just revealed the price of its semi trailer and once again, it is exceeding all expectations!
Initially, when this model was first announced, people made disparate assumptions about the price in relation to the size of the battery. Some assumed that if the vehicle came with a 1,000-kilowatt-hour battery with a 500-mile range, the price would likely fall into the $200,000 to $250,000 range.
Tesla semi trailer at a competitive price
They finally released the actual costs, and frankly, these numbers are mind-boggling. Starting price is $150,000 for the 300-mile range model, $180,000 for the 500-mile range model, and $200,000 for the fully loaded Founders Series model, which should also be in the 500-mile range.
To put this in perspective, the basic price of a diesel-powered semi-trailer is approximately one hundred thousand dollars. If you prefer something that is more reliable or has more features, you will want to look in the $110,000 to $120,000 range.
Interestingly, when you consider the difference between the two models (300-mile range and 500-mile range models), what we’re really looking at is a bargain-priced upgrade.
Seen from this angle, the advertised price becomes even more profitable and attractive. We’re talking about an upgrade cost of just $15,000 for each additional 100 miles of range (about 200 kilowatts more of battery power)!
Of course these calculations could be way off, they are based on numbers and initial observations and there will be corollary costs involved with every purchase. But, if the math proves correct, this is truly a game changer!
The Elon Musk Factor
Lately, Tesla seems to be making inroads and gaining a lot of mileage over the competition. They already have a clear technological advantage, thanks to a forward-thinking decision to go big on R&D.
And they have Elon Musk.
“Let’s face it, people buy a Tesla EV because it’s a great car with wonderful technology, they invest in Tesla because they believe in Elon Musk,” observed TColey 100, a keen observer in the EV space. “Elon Musk is Tesla’s most valuable asset and that’s what the competition has to deal with.”
When it comes to Tesla, online discussions often naturally gravitate to areas where the company excels. EV technology, batteries and its huge super-charging network, those topics are par for the course.
But, if there’s a differentiator that’s making things happen for Tesla, that could only be Elon Musk. Comparisons have been made and tons of pages have been written about the man. The closest technological visionary that comes to mind is, of course, Steve Jobs.
They are both dream catchers who caused massive disruptions in their respective industries in search of breakthroughs. They do what they do best because they see it can be done. It’s unfortunate that Jobs died early. The way things are shaping up, Musk is poised to accomplish much bigger things before he’s done.
This piece is not meant to glorify Tesla or Musk. Far from it, the company has its own set of shortcomings to contend with, but its leadership and direction remain strong. Let us give credit where credit is due.
