Tesla's first electric truck unveiled

Tesla has revealed details about the Semi - its first electric truck. The vehicle will be available in two configurations - with 480 km and 800 km ranges with a full load.

The truck has a sloping front end with a large shatterproof reinforced windscreen. There are no door handles or mirrors. The truck also gets a front storage compartment like other Teslas. The driver sits in the middle, which Tesla claims, improves visibility.

On the inside, two large touchscreens flank the centrally positioned steering wheel. Only the hazard button gets a dedicated switch, while all other functions are controlled by the two screens. The outer edges of these screens display the outside of the truck and function as rear view mirrors. Drivers will also get a smartphone app to manage their trucks. Features like autonomous, semi-autonomous driving and collision warning are standard. The batteries are placed low, in an attempt to lower the truck's center of gravity and reduce the risk of roll overs, while the truck also gets an anti-jack-knifing technology.

The truck is powered by 4 independent motors that are located between the rear axles of the truck. Tesla claims a 5 second 0-60 mph time without any load and 20 seconds when fully loaded at over 36,000 kg. The truck is also claimed to maintain a speed of 105 km/h on a 5% grade under full load.

The company will also be setting up solar powered Megachargers for these trucks. These will be able to charge a truck with up to 640 km range in 30 mins. Production for the truck is scheduled to begin in 2019.