As Tesla prepares to begin high-volume production of the Semi, another real-world trial is adding to the growing body of evidence that the electric Class 8 truck can outperform expectations, even in pre-production form.
A new test conducted by a Texas-based logistics company shows the Tesla Semi delivering better efficiency than both Tesla’s original projections and previously reported fleet trials.
South Texas-based Mone Transport recently completed an operational trial of the Tesla Semi, putting the Class 8 electric truck through more than 4,700 miles (7,564 km) of freight routes across Texas. According to the company, the truck averaged an impressive 1.64 kWh per mile over the course of the test, beating both Tesla’s early efficiency projections and several previously reported pilot results.
“Mone Transport recently had the opportunity to put the Tesla Semi to the test, and we’re thrilled with the results!” the company shared in a post about the trial. “Over 4,700 miles of operations at 1.64 kWh/mile in our Texas operation.”
Mone Transport recently had the opportunity to put the Tesla Semi to the test, and we're thrilled with the results!
— Mone Transport (@monetransport) March 10, 2026
Over 4,700 miles of operations at 1.64 kWh/mile in our Texas operation.
We’re committed to providing zero emission transportation to our customers! pic.twitter.com/lYX0QSVHTp
Efficiency Improves on Earlier Tesla Semi Trials
The efficiency figure is notable because earlier real-world pilot programs involving the Tesla Semi have typically reported consumption a little above 1.7 kWh per mile. While that number already positioned the Semi as one of the most efficient heavy-duty trucks ever built, the results from Mone Transport suggest the vehicle may be capable of even better performance depending on route conditions and operational use.
Improved efficiency directly translates into lower operating costs for fleet operators, particularly when combined with the lower maintenance requirements of electric drivetrains. For companies running high-mileage routes, even small improvements in energy consumption can result in significant savings over time.
Another Successful Pilot Ahead of Tesla Semi Production
Mone Transport is the latest logistics company to test the Tesla Semi in real-world operations. Early deployments have already taken place with major companies including PepsiCo, DHL, and many others who have been running the trucks in pilot programs across the United States.
Late last year, DHL confirmed it had ordered additional Tesla Semis after evaluating the trucks in its fleet, saying it had “more than just a handful” on order and that the company “can’t wait to put them into operation.”
Tesla itself has also confirmed that numerous prototype units are already operating in commercial service. The company this week opened its first public Megacharger station for these early operators.
Volume Production Approaching in Nevada
These continued trials come as Tesla prepares to begin volume production of the Semi at its new factory near Giga Nevada.
The company was originally planning to start production in late 2025, but that timeline slipped into early 2026 with the final preparations now underway. The company expects initial builds to ramp through early 2026, with larger production volumes arriving later in the year, eventually reaching 50,000 units per year.
