After Trial, DHL Commits to the Tesla Semi, Orders 'More Than Just a Handful of Trucks'

The Tesla Semi has often been described as a proof of concept limited to occasional US test runs, but that view is shifting as Tesla moves into volume production. Global logistics firm DHL has confirmed plans to integrate a fleet of Tesla Semis into its operations.

NEWS: Tesla's redesigned Semi truck has just been spotted for the first time ever.

• Model Y style light bar

• More efficient

• Increased payload capability

• 1.7kWh/mile (15% improvement vs old Semi)

• Designed for autonomy

• 500 mile range

• 1.2MW (1,200kW) peak… https://t.co/GPRwfz8tQ4 pic.twitter.com/8kf1ECqT3Q

— Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) December 31, 2025

Operational Integration

While many carriers have tested single Tesla Semis, DHL intends to deploy an entire fleet. Stephan Schablinski, Vice President of DHL Supply Chain, said the company has "more than just a handful of trucks on order" and is keen to begin operations.

This decision follows a successful two-week, 3,000-mile trial that demonstrated more than simple freight movement: the Semi reached a 390-mile range while fully loaded. Schablinski said the Semi enables DHL to pursue routes and business opportunities that were not feasible before.

The Semi is being considered not just as a replacement for diesel trucks on short routes, but for longer, more demanding lanes previously considered unsuitable for electric propulsion.

The Semi’s Efficiency

DHL's trial produced strong efficiency results. With average speeds above 50 mph and a fully loaded gross combined weight of 75,000 lbs, the Tesla Semi achieved 1.72 kWh per mile.

That efficiency matters to fleet operators. DHL estimates a reduction of 50 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions per truck annually, and at 1.72 kWh/mile the Semi undercuts diesel fuel costs enough to support a return on investment for the capital outlay.

In one test, the Semi completed 390 miles on a single charge while fully loaded, a real-world demonstration that expands its applicability beyond last-mile duties into regional and middle-mile haulage.

The European Semi

As DHL prepares to add more Semis in 2026 to coincide with Tesla's volume production, the company is also considering expansion into Europe.

Tesla is developing a variant of the Semi specifically for the European market, featuring a sleeper cab and design adjustments to meet stricter EU vehicle-dimension and safety regulations. The company has also shown design updates including a new light bar similar to the one on the new Model Y.

For a global operator such as DHL, which aims to have 66% of its last-mile fleet running on zero-emission technology by 2030, the ability to deploy an electric heavy-duty platform across North America and Europe would provide major logistical benefits.

With volume production slated for early 2026, DHL is positioning itself to be among the first major carriers to scale zero-emission long-haul transport, using the Semi both for sustainability goals and as a strategic cost-reduction measure.