Tesla’s plan to build an electric big rig charging corridor from Texas to California is still on track, despite not receiving federal funding from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The company had requested nearly $100 million from the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant program, but was not selected as one of the winners. However, Tesla may explore other funding options, including state funding opportunities or future rounds of the CFI program.
The proposed charging corridor, known as TESSERACT, aims to establish a first-of-its-kind charging network for electric semi-trucks. It would enable long-distance and regional electric trucking, helping to reduce emissions in the transportation sector. Without the funding, Tesla’s plans to electrify heavy-duty trucking may face further delays.
The route would span 1,800 miles and connect Tesla’s North American vehicle factories, as well as a planned factory in Mexico. Initially, the plan was to build nine charging stations along the route, each equipped with eight 750kW chargers for Tesla Semis and four chargers for other electric trucks. However, it remains unclear how effective the project would be if all nine stations couldn’t be built.
While Tesla did not receive federal funding, it has secured approximately $17 million from other charging awards under the Infrastructure Act. Rohan Patel, who recently left his VP position at Tesla, suggested that the company may consider state funding opportunities or future rounds of the CFI program.
The Biden administration’s CFI funding choices focused on both urban and rural communities, aiming to build EV charging infrastructure at convenient and high-use locations like schools, parks, and libraries. Additionally, funding was allocated to corridor projects, including a hydrogen fueling station initiative along the I-10 corridor. However, Patel criticized the use of funds for hydrogen infrastructure.
Apart from funding challenges, Tesla’s recent restructuring and its focus on autonomy could also complicate the progress of the Semi program. Elon Musk has prioritized autonomy and reportedly abandoned plans for a low-cost EV in favor of a purpose-built robotaxi. The Semi program is already behind schedule, with only about 100 trucks built to date.
Despite these challenges, the Semi program is slowly gaining traction. Recently, the head of the program announced a potential new customer for the trucks. Tesla has also been utilizing Semis to transport battery packs from Nevada to the Fremont factory.
In conclusion, while Tesla did not receive federal funding for its electric big rig charging corridor project, the company remains committed to its plans. Alternative funding options and the slow growth of the Semi program indicate that Tesla is still dedicated to revolutionizing heavy-duty trucking with electric vehicles.
