In a real-world validation win for Semi, Tesla has seen two major companies, ArcBest and “thyssenkrupp Supply Chain Services,” complete extensive, multi-week pilot programs for the Tesla Semi.
The results were overwhelmingly positive as these companies used the Semi for thousands of miles over challenging terrain.
ArcBest Conquers Donner Pass
Logistics company ArcBest announced that it has completed a three-week pilot program with the Tesla Semi. Over that period, the truck logged an impressive 4,494 miles, averaging 321 miles per day. The pilot also showed off a remarkable energy efficiency of just 1.55 kWh per mile, a figure confirmed by Tesla Semi Program Head, Dan W. Priestley. For comparison, a Model 3, Tesla’s most efficient vehicle, uses approximately 0.250 kWh per mile, making the Semi use roughly six times more energy.
ABF demo of Tesla Semi ran with efficiency of 1.55kWh/mi https://t.co/3DyM3lqBGg
— Dan Priestley (@danWpriestley) July 9, 2025
Most importantly, the vehicle was tested in difficult, real-world trucking conditions, successfully navigating the 7,200-foot climb over Donner Pass. Arcbest stated that Semi “generally matched the performance of its diesel counterparts”. The company also noted that driver feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Operators highlighted Semi’s comfort, safety, and ease of use. There was a lot of specific praise for the center seat configuration, wide field of visibility, and intuitive controls, which made it an enjoyable experience.
Thyssenkrupp Calls Semi a “Natural Fit”
In a separate but related announcement, thyssenkrupp Supply Chain Services also revealed that it had recently completed a successful three-week demo of the Tesla Semi at one of its logistics hubs in California. During its winter trial, the truck delivered goods for nearly 5,000 miles in a variety of conditions, which included regularly traversing the steep Altamont Pass.
Working with our suppliers and logistics partners to electrify Tesla’s supply chain. With lower cost and higher reliability, it just makes sense. thyssenkrupp pushed the truck hard over this demo and now plans to integrate Semi into their fleet.https://t.co/ATER6ktaer
— Dan Priestley (@danWpriestley) July 9, 2025
The results were so positive that the company announced that plans are already underway to integrate a fleet of Tesla Semis into its operations soon. That is another huge win for the Semi Program as volume production is expected to begin by the end of 2025.
The Tesla Semi aligns with our ongoing commitment to sustainability and operational excellence. Its efficiency and diagnostic features, and low environmental impact make it a natural fit for our evolving logistics strategy.
Bob Denehy, Chief Commercial Officer, thyssenkrupp Supply Chain Services
A Win for Tesla
According to Dan, these partnerships are just part of Tesla’s strategy. Working with its own suppliers and logistics partners helps electrify Tesla’s own supply chain, and with lower costs and higher reliability, it just makes sense for all parties involved.
The successful completion of these two rigorous, real-world pilot programs is a sign that the Semi has proven its efficiency, reliability, and performance to many major players in the logistics industry. Next up for Semi will be volume production and sales to companies outside of Tesla’s pilot programs.
