In a recent press conference Tesla Motors announced it is expanding its network of “Supercharger” stations. This summer the number will jump to 26. By 2015 Tesla Supercharging stations will number in the hundreds and be installed coast-to-coast covering 98% of heavily traveled routes in the US. Drivers will drive from one station to another as they transit the country.
Amazingly owners of Tesla vehicles will never have to pay for gas again because Tesla is offering charging for free. Multi-talented visionary entrepreneur Elon Musk wants to make sure customers are using their Tesla vehicles and traveling far and wide. Superchargers will be located near roadside diners, cafés and shopping centers where travelers can have a meal or shop while their Tesla vehicle is being charged; charging time is about 20 minutes.
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Tesla Supercharge FAQs (Courtesy Tesla Motors)
Where are the Superchargers?
Superchargers are conveniently located along the most popular routes in North America.
Where exactly is the Supercharger on the property?
Supercharger stations are GPS located on Google Maps. Owners can use the Model S 17” touch screen to locate the property.
How many charging stalls are at each location?
The number of Supercharger stalls varies by location. There are currently 4 to 10 charging stalls, depending on the location.
When and where are more being built?
Superchargers will be unveiled throughout the year in locations across North America.
How does Tesla decide where to put the Superchargers?
Tesla locates Superchargers to enable the most popular routes, accounting for distance and local driving conditions. Superchargers are located where customers want to stop, such as cafes, restaurants, and shopping areas.
What is a Supercharger and why is it unique?
A Supercharger is a fast-charge station capable of delivering up to 50% battery capacity to Model S in about 20 minutes, roughly 16 times faster than most public charging stations.
How much does it cost to use the Supercharger?
Supercharging is free for the life of Model S, once the Supercharger option is enabled.
How long does it take to Supercharge?
Superchargers are capable of delivering up to 50% battery capacity in about 20 minutes.
Why is it free?
We want to encourage Model S owners to take road trips.
Will it always be free?
Yes, Superchargers will be free to use for Supercharging-enabled vehicles for the life of Model S.
How do I know if my car can Supercharge?
All 85 kWh Model S and Supercharging -enabled 60kWh vehicles are capable of Supercharging.
How does the Supercharger work?
Supercharging Model S is just like using Tesla’s Mobile Connector or High Power Wall Connector. Simply park in the Supercharging stall and plug in your Model S using the connector from the Supercharger post. Once plugged in, your Model S will initiate charging and the charge port will flash green to indicate that charging has begun. You will also be able to monitor charging on your instrument cluster.
Does weather affect Supercharging?
General weather will not affect Supercharging. The Supercharger will operate normally in all conditions, but might reduce power slightly in very hot conditions, over 100F.
Are the Superchargers always open? What are the hours?
Stations are open for charging 24-hours a day, however, nearby amenities are subject to business hours.
How should I plan a trip using Superchargers?
All Supercharger locations are GPS-located on Google Maps to assist with route planning.
What should I do if all Supercharger stalls are occupied when I arrive?
Check to see if current users have left contact information on their dashboard and give them a call. Most customers charge for 20 to 60 minutes.
There are people waiting to charge, but I am not done charging; what is charging etiquette?
We ask our customers to use courtesy while charging. Once your Model S has completed charging, we ask that you move your vehicle to make the spot available for other Model S owners.
I am Supercharging, but not as quickly as I expected, what could be wrong?
The Supercharging rate may vary due to battery charge level, current use of the Supercharging station and extreme climate conditions.
Is it okay to Supercharge in the rain and snow?
Model S is designed to charge in inclement weather. However, charging times may vary in extreme climate conditions.
How often can I Supercharge, is it bad for my battery?
Supercharging does not alter the new vehicle warranty. Customers are free to use the network as much as they like.
