Everything I Got Right and Wrong About the Tesla Semi After Finally Driving One

In May 2023, the author criticized the Tesla Semi as a "glorified day cab with poor driver positioning and weak features." However, after driving the vehicle loaded in July 2025, the author found that the range numbers held up and that the company's focus on passenger cars did not hinder the truck's performance. The author also questioned the purpose of the center seat, but found it to be a better fit than initially thought.

Despite initial doubts about the center seat, the author discovered that the seat improved visibility and made stopping easier. The most surprising revelation was the brake pedal, which required minimal pressure due to regenerative braking, leading to less brake fade and maintenance. This change had a significant impact on the driver's experience, especially during long drives and steep descents.

While not every aspect of the Tesla Semi proved perfect, the author ultimately found the vehicle to be a promising development in the electric truck industry.