Quote:
Originally Posted by redpoint5
Even more interesting to me is if a loaded semi will be able to maintain higher speeds when climbing a grade. Potentially more time savings there.
The main point isn't time savings though, but to lower the operating costs associated with fuel and maintenance. Time is a bonus.
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It is a trade off between time and money. Class 8 trucks vary wildly in engine specs anywhere from 250 to 600 hp and 1000 - 2000 lb-ft of torque. Plenty of trucks can maintain speed on grades but doing so burns a huge amount of fuel. (Just like blasting up a grade at 80 mph depletes a battery very quickly)
The problem with Tesla's claims is that they don't tell us the diesel truck they are using for comparison.