Tesla Semi delayed until 2020

Production was scheduled to start in 2019.

The truckers, shipping companies, and retailers who sent Tesla a $20,000 deposit to secure an early Semi build slot (or $200,000 for a Founders Series model) will need to be patient. Staying true to tradition, company co-founder and CEO Elon Musk announced the Semi's launch has been delayed to 2020.

Semi production was scheduled to kick off in 2019. But, speaking during an annual shareholder's meeting, Musk said the company is facing a 12-month delay as it struggles to secure enough batteries (and, presumably, the materials to build those batteries). The Semi's full specifications haven't been announced yet, but it can allegedly drive for up to 500 miles on a single charge in its most capable configuration. Achieving that figure will require an immense battery pack.

"There's not much point in increasing product complexity if we don't have enough batteries," Musk explained during the meeting. He added Tesla might need to get into the mining business to secure the raw materials it needs -- "a little bit, at least."

Musk didn't reveal whether the battery shortage will affect the Model Y, Model 3-based crossover expected to go into production during 2020. And, the shortage isn't stopping the firm from planning future models. Musk announced the electric pickup truck he announced years ago will finally make its debut during the summer of 2019.