Tesla Semi vs Kenworth T680
Two trucks compared spec for spec: the Semi (2022–present, Electric drive) against the T680 (2012–present, 405–565 hp). Same data we keep on every truck in the encyclopedia — and Mike on hand if the answer depends on your routes and loads.
Semi
The headline-grabbing electric Class 8.
T680
Kenworth's aero flagship and fuel-economy leader.
| Spec | Tesla Semi | Kenworth T680 |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | Tesla, Inc. | PACCAR |
| Class | Class 8 | Class 8 |
| Body type | Electric | Sleeper |
| Years | 2022–present | 2012–present |
| Rating | Up to 82,000 lb GCWR | Up to 80,000 lb GCWR |
| Power | Electric drive | 405–565 hp |
| Engines | Tri-motor battery-electric | PACCAR MX-13, PACCAR MX-11, Cummins X15 |
| Applications | Long-haul, Regional, Drayage | Long-haul, Regional |
About the Tesla Semi
Unveiled in November 2017, the Tesla Semi is a battery-electric Class 8 tractor whose Long Range trim covers 500 miles on a charge and consumes about 1.7 kWh per mile, with a 1.2 MW Megacharger that recovers about 70% of range in 30 minutes. After delivering its first units to PepsiCo in December 2022, Tesla began volume production on April 29, 2026 at a plant beside Giga Nevada in Sparks built to turn out 50,000 Semis a year.
About the Kenworth T680
Launched at the 2012 Mid-America Trucking Show (production from 2013) as Kenworth's third-generation aerodynamic conventional replacing the T660 and T700, the T680 emerged from a four-year, $400 million program to develop the 2.1-meter cab and PACCAR MX engine. The 2021 T680 Next Gen made it Kenworth's most aerodynamic truck ever and introduced a 15-inch digital instrument display that Kenworth billed as the largest standard factory screen in any North American truck.
Which one fits your operation?
Specs only get you so far — routes, loads and the shop that maintains it matter. Mike, the free AI truck consultant, talks it through with you. No account, 24/7.
