Horizon Motor shows a new Class 8 electric truck

Horizon Motor has unveiled a new Class 8 electric semi-truck, positioning itself as a direct competitor to the Tesla Semi in an increasingly crowded market. While established manufacturers such as Volvo, Daimler Truck, and Traton have developed electric trucks, they have been criticised for focusing more on lobbying efforts than on advancing EV adoption. In contrast, startups like Tesla and Windrose have aggressively pursued affordable electric Class 8 trucks, and Horizon Motor now joins this group with its latest offering showcased at the ACT Expo 2026. The Horizon Class 8 tractor features a two-seat half-sleeper cab and utilises a dual-plug CCS1 charging system. Weighing in at 29,000 pounds, the vehicle offers a claimed range of 350 miles on a single charge. The unit displayed at the expo represents Horizon’s first production model, which is set to undergo real-world testing with a California-based fleet customer. The company is preparing to open orders soon, promising delivery timelines of approximately four to five months. Looking ahead, Horizon Motor plans to incorporate solid-state battery technology to enhance performance. CEO Sean Jones revealed an agreement to purchase up to one gigawatt of these batteries, which boast twice the energy density of current lithium-ion cells. This advancement could allow the company to either halve battery weight or double the truck’s range, signalling a significant leap in electric truck efficiency and practicality. Jones is optimistic about electric trucks replacing diesel in many applications, citing substantial fuel savings and simpler vehicle architecture as key advantages. However, he acknowledges that electric trucks are unlikely to supplant diesel on long-haul routes in the near term due to inadequate charging infrastructure. Regarding hydrogen fuel cells, Horizon’s experience with a prototype in 2019 highlighted challenges such as complexity, durability concerns, and high operational costs, leading the company to focus primarily on battery electric technology for now. The introduction of Horizon Motor’s Class 8 electric truck adds further momentum to the shift towards electrification in heavy-duty transport, particularly in regional and urban freight operations. As the company moves towards production and testing, its progress will be closely watched as an indicator of how emerging players can challenge incumbents and reshape the market for zero-emission trucking.