Tesla Supercharger Specifications and Price 2022
The Tesla Supercharger exists as a combined network of proprietary charging stations developed and implemented by Tesla. As a result, the automaker doesn’t have to rely on third-party charging networks like most automakers producing electric vehicles currently do.
Since then, the Supercharger network has grown to more than 20,000 kiosks worldwide at more than 2,100 stations or hubs. This includes North America, Europe, Asia and even the Arctic Circle. Tesla recently passed 1,000 Supercharger stations in North America alone.
The average station usually has about 10 supercharging kiosks, but some stations offer a lot more. For example, Tesla opened its 72 kiosk Supercharger station in Shanghai at the end of 2020, making it the largest in the world. Currently, Tesla is operating by allowing 62 station kiosks on the west side of Los Angeles that could easily make it the largest in North America.
Unlocking the Tesla Supercharger Network for Other Electric Vehicle Companies
In July of 2021, Tesla CEO Elon Musk revealed that the company plans to open its Supercharger network to other automakers later this year.
Soon, non-Tesla owners will be able to sign up for an account through the Tesla app, then simply add a credit card and manage their charging sessions.
We later learned some of the reasons behind this decision. By opening its charging network to non-Tesla electric vehicles, the automaker will get $7.5 billion in EV funding from new US legislation under the Biden administration.
Here’s the latest news to keep you updated on Tesla’s growing Supercharger network:
Tesla begins bringing the supercharger back into salvaged vehicles
Tesla is preparing to expand the Supercharger giant before opening the network to other EVs
Tesla once again bans cars rescued from the Supercharger network in a puzzling situation
How it works
Think of it as a gas station…but without gas and a much smaller footprint. Tesla Supercharger kiosks can be found in parking lots at malls, grocery stores, or at larger stations off major highways. Unlike most gas stations, the supercharger is usually available 24 hours a day, as long as it is accessible.
You pull over, find a booth, park and drop off the car. Once connected, the vehicle charging port LED indicator will flash green to indicate that charging has begun. You can then monitor your charging progress on your dashboard.
With your Tesla app, you can view your stall availability, monitor your charging status, and get notified when you’re ready to go. Furthermore, there is no need to take out your credit card for a quick swipe. Everything is charged through the Tesla app and will use any credits you may have. If you don’t have any Tesla credits, the app will simply charge your assigned card on file.
Tesla charging levels
It’s important to understand that Tesla Superchargers operate using DC fast charging, which is currently the fastest method available for electric vehicles. With that said, you wouldn’t be able to pull that kind of power into a Tesla at home. In these cases, drivers use Level 1 or Level 2 AC charging.
Think of Level 1 as an all-inclusive shipping option. If there is a standard wall socket nearby, you will be able to charge your electric vehicle with it. With that said, 120 volts is the minimum amount of juice you can draw into your EV. So, if your 2021 Tesla Long Range Model 3 battery capacity is 82 kWh, you’re looking at days to charge it, not hours.
Level 2 chargers are the most common type found in third-party charging stations. 240 volt sockets usually provide about 40 amps and are more specifically placed in homes. Consider this charger the equivalent of your dryer or other large appliance.
Tesla suggests owners install a Level 2 charger in their home or garage if they can. It is very easy for an electrician or professional to come and install. With Level 2, you’re looking at 8-12 hours to charge.
DC chargers
These Level 3 chargers forgo the above alternating current (AC) methods to directly connect the mains current. While it requires more power from the grid (480+V and 100+A), its output is really “super”.
Most Tesla Superchargers can now recharge up to 200 miles of range in 15 minutes, depending on the charging rate. Superchargers also range in charge speeds from 90 kW to 250 kW, depending on the station.
It is important to note that due to their massive direct current (DC), Superchargers are not recommended for the daily charging of your Tesla vehicle. Instead, superchargers are positioned to provide fast charging for drivers on the go, or for those who are on the long road.
According to Tesla, the peak charging rate of the battery may drop slightly after a large number of supercharging sessions. To ensure maximum driving range and battery safety, the battery charge rate automatically decreases when the battery is too cold and when the battery is nearly full. It is best to use a supercharger with a low battery that has been pre-configured (if necessary).
How much does Tesla get paid?
Because of the fluidity of electricity available in different regions, this is not a simple answer. Factors such as the electricity available on the grid, peak hours, and the amount of electricity you transmit, play a role in the price of your EV charging on your Tesla Supercharger. All prices already include taxes and fees.
The exact prices for each supercharger location can be seen by tapping its pin on the navigation system’s touch screen. While you’re supercharging, your total session is displayed on the touch screen.
Tesla owners are usually billed for the amount of power (kWh) they deliver to their car. However, some areas cannot track these facilities and prohibit this practice. As a result, Tesla offers a charge-by-minute model known as time-of-use (ToU).
Per Tesla website, here are some other pricing details you should be aware of with the Supercharger:
When billed by the minute, there are two tiers for calculating changes in charging speeds, called ‘tier 1’ and ‘tier 2’. Level 1 applies while charging vehicles at or below 60 kW and Level 2 applies while charging vehicles above 60 kW. Level 1 is half the cost of Level 2.
Level 1 also applies any time your vehicle shares Supercharger power with another vehicle.
The price for using the supercharger may vary by location, and prices may change from time to time.
Some supercharging stations offer peak and off-peak rates. Prices and peak times are displayed in the navigation app on the vehicle’s touchscreen.
Standard Supercharger charges apply after free Supercharger credits are used.
idle fee
Idle Charge is a protocol used to ensure that many Tesla drivers can use Supercharger kiosks quickly and efficiently. It works by charging any electric vehicle running a supercharger with a full charging session, if the station is at least 50% full. However, if the Tesla is moved within five minutes of the charging session being completed, the fee is waived.
This is where the Tesla app comes in handy. By monitoring your fast charging session and alerting you to its completion (the range necessary to reach your next destination), you can move your vehicle faster to avoid idle charges.
For more details Visit Tesla’s official website https://www.tesla.com/supercharger