Walmart Canada triples order of Tesla's electric transport trucks

Walmart Canada says it's more than tripling its order of Tesla’s new electric truck.

The discount retailer pre-ordered 15 of the 18-wheeler trucks--called the Tesla Semi--when it was unveiled in 2017. Nearly three year later, and after a delay in production and delivery, Walmart Canada is now reserving a total of 130 trucks.

The move, announced via press release Tuesday morning, follows Walmart Canada's recent commitment of $3.5 billion over the next five years to improve service in stores and on the web, renovate 150 stores and build two new distribution centres. It is also aligned with Walmart's global goal to target zero emissions by 2040.

"Tripling our reservation of Tesla Semi trucks is part of our ongoing effort to innovate the business and prioritize sustainability," said John Bayliss, senior vice-president, logistics and supply chain, Walmart Canada. "By converting 20% of our fleet to electric vehicles by the end of 2022 and committing to alternative power for all fleet vehicles by 2028, we are putting safety, innovation and sustainability at the forefront of our logistics network."

According to Tesla, the Tesla Semi can go from zero to 60 mph in 20 seconds with a full 80,000-pound load and can climb 5% grades at a steady 65 mph (compared to 45mph for same grade in a diesel truck).

It said the Tesla Semi gets 500 miles per charge and its brakes recover 98% of kinetic energy to the battery.