Tesla is back in the news again, this time for issuing a new voluntary recall for its Semi model. This isn’t a significant concern, though. It’s just a software update meant to fix a glitch with the side door warning system.
Earlier this year, Tesla reportedly had its first Semi recall in March, linked to a faulty parking brake module. This problem affected other truck models as well, so it wasn’t unique to Tesla. That recall covered 35 vehicles produced between November 30 and February 28, lining up closely with the 36 Semis deployed by Tesla’s first customer, PepsiCo.
Interestingly, the current recall also applies to 36 vehicles, precisely matching the number mentioned in the March recall. These trucks were produced between November 30 and March 15, just 15 days longer than the previous period.
But here’s the kicker. This information might imply that Tesla’s Semi production is at a snail’s pace, if it’s still ongoing. Although trucks made after March 15 might already be on a newer software version, there’s a possibility that no new Semis have been manufactured since then.
On Wednesday, Tesla gave an update on the Semi production, but the volume of deliveries remained ambiguous. While we know that Pepsi and Frito have received deliveries, no other clients have been mentioned.
Tesla stated that high volume production is likely not going to commence until the end of next year due to battery supply constraints. Given this update, reaching a previously projected goal of 50,000 trucks per year by 2024 seems far-fetched.
Tesla’s last quarterly report referred to a “pilot production” line capable of manufacturing five Semis per week. However, the latest recall information implies that even this pilot line might not be functioning at full capacity.
As Tesla navigates these speed bumps, we’ll just have to wait and see what the road ahead holds for the Semi’s production.
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