As an owner of an all-electric Tesla vehicle, you have access to one of the most advanced charging networks in the world – the Tesla Supercharger network. With over 12,000 Superchargers worldwide, including over 850 locations in North America, charging your Tesla on the go has never been easier. However, for new Tesla owners, the Supercharger experience can seem a bit daunting at first.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to charge your Tesla at a Supercharger station with confidence. From showing you a Tesla superchargers map which locates your nearest Supercharger, it will help you understand the different types of Superchargers to starting a charging session and monitoring your charge status, we have you covered. In just a few minutes of reading, you’ll be a Supercharging pro and ready to hit the open road in your Tesla.
Locating a Tesla Supercharger Near You
To take advantage of Tesla’s Supercharger network, you’ll first need to locate stations along your route.Electrly offers users the convenience of a comprehensive Tesla Superchargers map. This invaluable resource demonstrates our commitment to facilitating seamless electric vehicle travel.
By pinpointing all Tesla Supercharging stations globally, Electrly empowers users to effortlessly plan their routes and recharge stops. This exceptional capability not only enhances the driving experience but also bolsters the adoption of sustainable transport by making electric vehicular travel more accessible and efficient. At Electrly, it bridges the gap between technology and utility, driving towards a greener future.
Each Supercharger location typically has between 6 to 20 or more individual Supercharger stalls, with some sites having up to 50 stalls for high-volume locations. The number of Superchargers at each site is noted on the in-car map and mobile app to ensure there are enough available chargers for your needs. Newer Supercharger locations are being built to accommodate more vehicles at a time to suit growing demand.
What to Expect at a Tesla Supercharger Station
To charge your Tesla vehicle at a Supercharger station, here are the steps to expect:
Locate a Supercharger station along your route using the navigation system in your Tesla touchscreen. Supercharger locations can also be found on Tesla’s website and mobile app. Once you arrive at the selected Supercharger station, park your Tesla in an available Supercharger spot. The charging cable will automatically unlock from its holder as you approach.
Plug in Your Tesla to Start Charging
Connect the Supercharger cable to your vehicle’s charging inlet, located either on the driver’s side rear panel (Model S and Model X) or front panel (Model 3). Charging will automatically start once the cable is secured. The Supercharger cable does not require any authentication or payment to activate – charging is included with your Tesla vehicle.
Monitor Your Tesla’s Charge Level
You can view your Tesla’s current state of charge and estimated time remaining on the touchscreen or mobile app. Once fully charged, unplug the Supercharger cable and return it to its holder. The Supercharger cable will automatically lock to avoid unauthorized use. Your Tesla is now ready to continue its journey!
Supercharger stations provide a fast, convenient way to recharge your Tesla’s high-voltage battery. By following these simple steps, you’ll be back on the road in no time. Safe travels!
Charging Your Tesla at a Supercharger
To charge your Tesla vehicle at a Supercharger station, follow these steps:
- Locate a nearby Supercharger station. You can find Supercharger locations on Tesla’s website or in your vehicle’s navigation system. Superchargers are strategically placed along well-traveled routes and in urban centers.
- Park your Tesla in an available Supercharger stall. The charging cable will automatically start charging your vehicle once properly connected. Each stall contains a cable to plug into your vehicle’s charge port.
- Connect the Supercharger cable to your vehicle’s charge port. The cable will lock into place and begin rapidly charging your battery. Supercharging adds up to 170 miles of range in 30 minutes.
- Stay with your vehicle while Supercharging. Although Supercharging is very fast, you still need to remain with the vehicle during charging in case any issues arise. You can monitor the charging progress on your vehicle’s touchscreen.
- Disconnect the charge cable once Supercharging is done Supercharging. Grasp the Supercharger cable handle and press the release button on the charge port to unlock the cable. Return the cable to the holder in the Supercharger stall.
- Move your vehicle from the Supercharger stall once charging is complete. This opens up the stall for other Tesla owners to charge their vehicles. You can then continue your drive or proceed to your destination.
Supercharger stations provide a fast, convenient way to quickly recharge your Tesla battery for minimal cost. Following these straightforward steps will ensure an easy, hassle-free Supercharging experience and allow you to get back on the road as soon as possible.
Charging Fees and Membership Plans for Supercharging
To charge your Tesla vehicle using a Supercharger, there are a few options for payment plans and fees to be aware of.
All new Tesla vehicles come with 400 kWh of free Supercharging credits which amounts to roughly 1000 miles of driving. Once those credits are used, there are two main ways to pay for Supercharging:
Pay As You Go
With the Pay As You Go option, you are charged on a per kWh basis for the electricity dispensed to your vehicle during charging sessions. Rates vary by location, time of day, and current utility rates. You can expect to pay between $0.24 to $0.32 per kWh. The total cost will depend on the capacity of your vehicle’s battery and how depleted it is when you start charging.
Monthly Membership Plans
For more consistent Supercharging at fixed rates, Tesla offers monthly membership plans. The most affordable plan is the Standard Plan at $9.95/month which provides 400 kWh of credits that roll over month to month. The Premium Plan at $19.95/month provides 1000 kWh of credits. Any unused credits will rollover for one month. These plans can help frequent Supercharging users lower and stabilize their costs.
Additional tips for using Superchargers:
- Supercharging speeds are the fastest from 5% to 50% charge. For shorter stops, try to arrive at a lower state of charge.
- Choose less busy Supercharger sites during off-peak hours when possible for faster charging speeds.
- Once your vehicle reaches 80% charge, charging speed slows significantly. Only charge up to 100% when needed for long distance driving. Otherwise, 80% is adequate for most driving needs.
- Idling fees of $0.40/min apply after 5 minutes of a vehicle reaching full charge. Be sure to move your vehicle to an open parking spot to avoid these fees.
By understanding the Supercharging fees and membership plans available, you can choose the options that best suit your driving and budget needs. Take advantage of off-peak hours when you can and avoid idling fees once fully charged to maximize the value of Tesla’s Supercharging network.
Tesla Supercharger Tips and Tricks for the Best Experience
To get the most out of your Tesla Supercharger experience, keep the following tips in mind:
Plan Your Route
Before embarking on a long drive, map your route in the Tesla navigation system to locate Superchargers along the way. The system will automatically route you to Superchargers when needed to ensure you have enough range to complete your journey. Check that the stations you pass have available stalls before setting out.
Charge When Possible
Even if you have enough range to reach your destination, consider stopping at a Supercharger if one is conveniently along your route. Topping up the battery provides extra range in case of unexpected detours or emergencies. It also reduces the charging needed at your final stop, shortening the total time until you can continue your travels.
Choose the Right Stall
For the fastest charge, select a Supercharger stall rated at 150 kW or higher. The charger type is listed on the station details screen in your Tesla touchscreen. Stalls with lower power ratings, especially those below 120 kW, will charge at slower speeds. When multiple high-powered stalls are available, choose one on an end for easier access.
Stay With Your Vehicle
Remain with your Tesla for the duration of the Supercharging session. Although rare, issues can arise that require you to stop or restart the charging. Staying in or near your vehicle allows you to promptly handle any alerts from the charging system and ensures you can move your Tesla once fully charged and the next customer needs the stall.
Be Courteous to Other Drivers
Once your Tesla reaches 80% charge or the target range for your next leg of driving, move it from the Supercharger stall to make the space available for other electric vehicle owners. Do not leave your vehicle in a stall after charging completes. Follow the guidance on the charging screen for when it is appropriate to unplug and vacate the space.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll master the Tesla Supercharging experience and confidently set out on long distance drives knowing you can quickly and efficiently recharge along the way. Charge on!
Conclusion
In summary, using a Tesla Supercharger is quite straightforward but does require some planning to ensure you have a smooth experience. Locate a Supercharger along your route, check its availability and fees in advance, and arrive with enough charge to reach the station. Once there, simply plug in, start your charge, and relax in your car or the station’s amenities. Tesla’s ever-expanding network of fast, convenient Superchargers make driving an electric vehicle practical and liberating. With a little forethought, you’ll be swiftly charging along the open road in your Tesla, reducing your environmental impact while enjoying an innovative driving experience. The future of sustainable transportation is here.