What Is a Tesla Supercharger and How Much Does It Cost to Use?
Tesla, the pioneering electric car manufacturer, operates a network of fast charging stations known as Tesla Superchargers. These charging stations enable Tesla owners to travel long distances without worrying about running out of charge, as they can quickly top up their batteries along the way. In this article, we will explore what Tesla Superchargers are and how much it costs to use them.
What Is a Tesla Supercharger?
A Tesla Supercharger is a DC fast charger specifically designed for Tesla electric vehicles. Superchargers are capable of delivering up to 250 kilowatts (kW) of power to Model S, Model X, Model 3, and Model Y cars. This gives Tesla drivers the ability to recharge their vehicles quickly and efficiently while on long road trips.
Supercharger stations are typically located along major highways and busy travel routes, making it easy for drivers to plan their journeys and recharge their cars when necessary. Tesla has built a network of Supercharger stations worldwide, with over 25,000 Superchargers in more than 3,500 locations around the world.
How Much Does It Cost to Use Tesla Superchargers?
While there’s no single answer to this question, there are some general guidelines to follow. Tesla’s Supercharger pricing varies by region, with the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) differing depending on location. In the United States, Supercharger rates range from around 20 to 30 cents per kWh, with lower rates typically found in states with low electricity prices. In Europe, Supercharger rates vary from about €0.28 to €0.36 per kWh.
Tesla also uses a tiered pricing system, where charging speeds are slower when using the same Supercharger stall multiple times in a single session. For example, if you’re using a Supercharger station and continue to charge after your car’s battery reaches a certain point, the charging speed will slow down, and the hourly rate will increase.
One advantage of owning a Tesla is that the company includes a certain amount of Supercharger credit with the purchase of a new vehicle. As of 2021, Tesla offers new owners 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) of free Supercharging each year, allowing them to take advantage of the network without worrying about the associated costs.