Musk Determined To Sell Tesla Semi Electric Truck In Europe

Tesla CEO Elon Musk is determined to sell the much-delayed Tesla Semi Class 8 electric truck in Europe, despite challenges including a tarnished brand reputation and a competitive market. Tesla recently hired Usuf Schermo, formerly of electric truck startup Volta, to lead its European sales efforts. Volta focuses on urban delivery trucks designed for safety and zero emissions, reflecting a broader industry shift away from internal combustion engines toward sustainable commercial vehicles in European cities. While Tesla Semi has garnered positive reviews, it faces stiff competition from established European manufacturers like MAN Truck & Bus, which recently began series production of electric trucks on the same line as its diesel models, allowing faster market delivery across a wide weight range. Notably, PepsiCo is moving closer to deploying Tesla Semis, announcing plans in May 2024 to operate 50 trucks from its Fresno hub, supported by Tesla charging infrastructure. However, the Tesla Semi’s slow rollout and Musk’s controversial leadership raise questions about the brand’s appeal to fleet operators seeking