HMD Trucking Invested in 50 Tesla Semi Electric Rigs

The Chicago-based carrier plans to shift its diesel-heavy fleet to electric transport for long-haul routes.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Electric Vehicles

Isometric editorial illustration of a heavy electric semi-truck connected to a charging unit, representing the transition to industrial electric logistics. — Chicago-based HMD Trucking has purchased 50 Tesla Semi electric trucks, launching a $15 million investment to replace diesel vehicles in its long-haul fleet. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Is now a good time for businesses to switch their fleets to electric trucks?

HMD Trucking has purchased 50 Tesla Semi electric trucks as part of a $15 million investment. This move signals a significant transition for the company, which currently relies on a fleet of nearly 700 diesel-powered vehicles.

Why it matters

The company aims to lower its long-term fuel and maintenance costs through this electrification effort. These trucks are expected to handle long-haul operations efficiently, potentially setting a new efficiency standard for the regional logistics industry.

The Tesla Semis feature 850 kWh battery packs capable of 500-mile ranges, supported by a new Chicago-based network of Tesla Megachargers that deliver up to 1.2 megawatts of energy.

The players

HMD Trucking

A Chicago-based logistics firm generating $250 million in annual revenue that employs more than 1,000 people.

Henry Malukas

The founder of HMD Trucking who anticipates that electric big rigs will eventually replace his entire diesel fleet.

Tesla

An automotive manufacturer that produces electric passenger vehicles and the Semi heavy-duty truck.

The details

To support this transition, HMD Trucking is building its own dedicated charging infrastructure in Chicago. These trucks utilize Tesla Megachargers to replenish their 850 kWh battery packs, which is designed to sustain long-haul hauling operations. By integrating this technology, the firm expects to significantly reduce the operating expenses typically associated with traditional internal combustion engines.

1998: Henry and Daiva Malukas founded HMD Trucking.
September 2026: Henry Malukas attended the Tesla Semi launch event.
2026: David Malukas finished second in the Indianapolis 500.

The Home Front

This transition marks a departure from the traditional diesel-reliant logistics model that has defined the heavy-duty trucking industry for decades. It reflects a growing industry-wide movement toward fleet electrification to address rising operational costs and regulatory shifts.

While this news concerns industrial-scale logistics, Chicago residents may notice changes in local traffic and charging infrastructure as new Megacharger networks are established. Keep an eye on local development plans if you live near major commercial freight routes.

The takeaway

Large-scale logistics firms are betting on electric heavy-duty vehicles to reduce long-term maintenance costs and improve efficiency. As these technologies enter the commercial space, watch for similar upgrades to local charging infrastructure in your area.