The Tesla Supercharger fast Charging Network

The Tesla Supercharger fast charging network is an innovative concept by automaker Tesla, which builds and operates its own charging network alongside its electric vehicles globally.

In this article, you’ll learn what the Tesla Supercharger fast charging network is, how it works, and the benefits of Tesla’s charging stations, along with key considerations.

What is a Tesla Supercharger?

A Tesla Supercharger is a high-performance fast-charging system specifically developed by Tesla for its electric vehicles. Supercharger stations enable Tesla drivers to quickly charge their vehicles using direct current (DC) and travel long distances with minimal downtime.

Superchargers use DC instead of alternating current (AC) to deliver high power, significantly reducing charging times compared to traditional AC charging stations. Supercharger locations typically feature multiple stalls, allowing several vehicles to charge simultaneously.

The network is strategically placed along highways, major traffic routes, and urban areas, ensuring convenient access for Tesla drivers during trips. These stations are usually located at accessible spots such as rest areas, shopping centers, or hotels.

The number of stalls or stations varies by location and can range from 2 to over 100 individual charging points.

Where Can You Find Superchargers?

The Tesla Supercharger network in Europe spans numerous countries and includes thousands of charging points. The stations are strategically placed along highways and main traffic routes for easy use during long-distance travel. Tesla has also begun establishing urban Supercharger locations in shopping centers.

To locate Superchargers, you can use the official Tesla Supercharger website or the Tesla mobile app, both of which provide interactive maps showing all available Supercharger locations.

Within Tesla vehicles, the onboard navigation system also displays available Superchargers on the map and allows you to set them as navigation destinations.

If you wish to plan your route in advance in addition to using the Tesla app, we recommend using A Better Routeplanner for route planning.

The world’s largest Supercharger location is located at Harris Ranch, California (USA). In Europe, the largest Supercharger location is in Norway, featuring 44 individual Generation 2 stalls with a maximum power output of 150 kW.

In Germany, there is a location in Hilden with 32 V3 stalls offering a charging capacity of 250 kW and 8 V2 stalls with up to 150 kW.

In the south of Germany, one of the largest locations can be found in Merklingen on the A8 highway, with 40 V3 stalls.

A highlight among the modern rest stops along the highways is the Sortimo Innovation Park in Zusmarshausen, which is entirely dedicated to charging various types of electric vehicles (cars, buses, trucks). The site currently features 72 individual charging points with different charging capacities and pricing models. In addition to 12 Tesla V3 Supercharger stalls, the site also offers fast-charging stations with a charging capacity of up to 350 kW.

In addition to the mentioned charging points, 2023 saw the inauguration of the first Power-Swap Station (PSS) in Germany by the Chinese automaker NIO at the Sortimo Innovation Park in Zusmarshausen. This is a battery swap station where the empty battery of a NIO electric vehicle is automatically replaced with a fully charged one.

How Does Navigation Integrate Superchargers?

Tesla vehicles feature integrated navigation that seamlessly incorporates the Supercharger network. When entering a destination, the system automatically suggests optimal Supercharger stops along your route, ensuring you never worry about running out of battery.

The estimated charge level upon arrival is also displayed to ensure there is enough energy to reach your destination. This feature allows you to manually optimize your charging plan during the journey, making your trips convenient and efficient.

Are Tesla Superchargers Accessible to All EVs?

Since late 2021, Tesla has been gradually opening select Supercharger stations to non-Tesla vehicles in certain countries. As of June 2023, designated Superchargers in 19 countries, including Germany, are accessible to other EV brands.

How can I charge a non-Tesla electric vehicle at a Tesla Supercharger?

Users of electric vehicles from other manufacturers can install the Tesla app on their smartphone, create a Tesla account, and add a payment method such as a credit card for billing. At a Supercharger station, select the “Charge Your Non-Tesla” option in the Tesla app. Plug your vehicle into the charging point, then select the corresponding stall number in the app. The charging session is initiated by tapping “Start Charging” in the app. At the end of the session, stop the charging process via the “Stop Charging” option, and return the connector to the station.

Note: If you also own a Tesla, go to your profile in the Tesla app and select “Product Selection.” At the bottom of the list, you’ll find the option “Charge Your Non-Tesla Vehicle.”

What does it cost to charge at a Tesla Supercharger?

For Tesla Vehicles

The cost of charging a Tesla vehicle at a Supercharger varies depending on the location, country, and time of day, and is determined by Tesla. Tesla uses a pricing model known as “Supercharger usage per kilowatt-hour.”

Due to fluctuating energy and electricity prices, the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) at public charging stations is regularly adjusted by various operators in both directions. Following the recent normalization of energy prices, kWh rates have generally been significantly reduced.

Here is a current overview (as of October 2023) of kWh prices for some European Tesla Superchargers:

Germany: approximately €0.42 – €0.52

Italy: approximately €0.46 – €0.56

France: approximately €0.27 – €0.39

Netherlands: approximately €0.32 – €0.39

Belgium: approximately €0.39 – €0.47

Denmark: approximately 2.80 kr (€0.38) – 3.20 kr (€0.43)

Austria: approximately €0.35 – €0.51

Switzerland: approximately 0.45 CHF (€0.44) – 0.55 CHF (€0.56)

Croatia: approximately €0.42 – €0.50

Spain: approximately €0.42 – €0.47

Portugal: approximately €0.36 – €0.40

Slovenia: approximately €0.37 – €0.43

Czech Republic: approximately 10.30 Kč (€0.42) – 11.50 Kč (€0.47)

Poland: approximately 1.60 zł (€0.36) – 1.75 zł (€0.40)

For a detailed view of Tesla Supercharger prices in various European countries and additional information, you can consult the interactive map on chargeinsights.com.

Source: chargeinsights.com based on data from www.konkludenz.de.

The regular tariff hours are between 12:00 AM and 6:00 PM and from 10:00 PM to 12:00 AM in summer, and from 12:00 AM to 4:00 PM and from 8:00 PM to 12:00 AM in winter. Peak tariff hours are from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM in summer and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM in winter, during which Tesla applies slightly higher prices per kilowatt-hour.

The exact prices and details regarding billing methods can be found on the official Tesla website or in the Tesla Mobile App.

For other electric vehicles:

It is important to note that the Tesla Supercharger network was primarily designed for use by Tesla vehicles. However, Tesla has since begun opening the Supercharger network to EVs from other manufacturers, allowing vehicles with the CCS standard to charge at Tesla Supercharger stations.

Through the Tesla app, users of non-Tesla electric vehicles can access certain Supercharger locations. They can identify the appropriate charging stall using a unique designation (label on the base of the charger) and initiate the charging process. The specific costs for charging are generally higher than for Tesla vehicles and are displayed in the Tesla app before starting the session.

An up-to-date overview (as of October 2023) of prices per kWh for non-Tesla vehicles at selected European Tesla Superchargers:

• Germany: approximately €0.62 – €0.70

• Italy: approximately €0.65 – €0.72

• France: approximately €0.42 – €0.46

• Netherlands: approximately €0.43 – €0.51

• Belgium: approximately €0.54 – €0.61

• Denmark: approximately 2.55 kr (€0.34) – 2.90 kr (€0.39)

• Austria: approximately €0.59 – €0.68

• Switzerland: approximately 0.62 CHF (€0.64) – 0.72 CHF (€0.74)

• Croatia: currently unavailable

• Spain: approximately €0.52 – €0.58

• Slovenia: currently unavailable

• Czech Republic: currently unavailable

• Poland: currently unavailable

For more details and a video on using the Tesla app for non-Tesla vehicles, visit Tesla’s support page at https://www.tesla.com/de_de/support/non-tesla-supercharging.

How does Tesla Supercharger payment work?

Payment for using Tesla Superchargers is usually handled automatically through the Tesla account associated with the vehicle owner. Here are the basic steps involved:

1. Identification: When a Tesla driver connects their vehicle to a Supercharger, the system automatically recognizes the vehicle. There is no need for an RFID card or manual activation of the session.

2. Authentication: The Supercharger system communicates with the vehicle to verify its identity and status. Vehicle information is exchanged via the integrated communication system.

3. Charging: Once authentication is complete, charging begins. The charging power and battery level are monitored and updated during the session.

4. Billing: The usage is automatically linked to the vehicle owner’s Tesla account. Billing is based on the energy consumed, depending on the country and pricing structure.

5. Invoice: Tesla regularly issues invoices for Supercharger usage, typically monthly or when a usage threshold is reached.

Note that the exact billing method and associated costs can vary by country and tariff plan. Tesla has implemented various billing models to meet the requirements of different regions. Vehicle owners can view and manage their billing information through their Tesla account.

What are Supercharger idle fees?

Supercharger idle fees are charges imposed by Tesla to ensure the efficient use of Supercharger stations. These fees are applied when a Tesla vehicle remains connected to a Supercharger after charging is complete, blocking access to the charging station for other drivers. This encourages drivers to vacate the charging spot promptly, ensuring fair and efficient use of the network.

The exact amount of the idle fee can vary by country and tariff plan. The fee is typically calculated per minute and may increase progressively the longer the vehicle remains connected after charging.

Tesla drivers are usually notified via the vehicle display or the Tesla app when idle fees are being applied, encouraging them to move the car once charging is complete. According to Tesla, idle fees are only applied when a Supercharger station is at least 50% occupied. These fees double if the station is fully occupied.

It is important for Tesla drivers to use Supercharger stations efficiently to avoid idle fees and ensure smooth operation of the network, providing adequate charging infrastructure for other users.

What is the charging power of a Supercharger?

A Supercharger provides high charging power to minimize charging times for Tesla vehicles. The exact power output varies by the model of the Supercharger. Different generations of Superchargers offer varying levels of charging power, which can be viewed in detail on the vehicle’s display.

1. Supercharger V2: This generation provides charging power of up to 150 kW per stall. Some older units may offer up to 120 kW.

2. Supercharger V3: This newer generation delivers significantly higher power, with up to 250 kW per stall.

3. Supercharger V4: The latest generation of Superchargers offers even higher power output, with up to 600 kW per stall. These chargers also feature longer cables to accommodate the varying charging port locations on different electric vehicles.

The actual charging power depends on several factors, including battery condition, ambient temperature, and other variables.

How many Superchargers are there currently?

As of October 2024, there are over 6,000 Supercharger locations worldwide, with approximately 60,000 stalls in Tesla’s fast-charging network. In Europe, there are over 1,000 Supercharger locations with approximately 10,000 stalls.

Tesla has built a dense network across Europe, enabling drivers to travel long distances conveniently and quickly without worrying about the availability of charging stations.

The number of Supercharger locations is continuously increasing as Tesla expands the network to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles and improve charging infrastructure. Current numbers may therefore differ from those mentioned above. It is recommended to consult the official Tesla Supercharger map or the Tesla mobile app to find the exact number of Supercharger locations worldwide and in Europe.

What are Tesla Destination Chargers?

Tesla Destination Chargers are special charging stations provided by Tesla for destinations such as hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, and similar places. Unlike Superchargers, which are primarily designed for long-distance travel along highways and major traffic routes, Destination Chargers are intended for Tesla vehicles parked for extended periods, such as during overnight stays at hotels or shopping trips.

Destination Chargers offer slower charging speeds compared to Superchargers. They use alternating current (AC) and typically provide a charging capacity of 11 kW to 22 kW, depending on the installation and specific charging requirements.

Tesla has built a global network of Destination Chargers to extend the charging infrastructure for Tesla drivers at various destinations. Drivers can check the availability and locations of Destination Chargers through the Tesla website, the Tesla mobile app, or the vehicle’s navigation system.

How long does it take to charge a Tesla?

The charging time for a Tesla varies depending on several factors, including the model, battery capacity, current charge level, charging station power, and chosen charging strategy.

Here are approximate charging times for different Tesla models:

Tesla Model S and Model X (~100 kWh battery capacity):

• At a Supercharger: Charging can take approximately 20–50 minutes to add several hundred kilometers of range, depending on the battery capacity of the vehicle.

• At a Destination Charger or other public charging station: Charging time can be longer, as these stations generally offer lower power output. It may take several hours to fully charge the battery.

• At a household outlet: Charging at a standard household socket with 2.3 kW can provide enough energy to charge the car overnight for more than 100 km of range. A full charge for a Model S or Model X would take much longer.

Tesla Model 3 and Model Y (~60–82 kWh battery capacity):

• At a Supercharger: Similar to larger models, charging typically takes 10–40 minutes to add several hundred kilometers of range.

• At a Destination Charger or other public charging station: Charging time depends on the station’s power output, as Teslas are typically charged at 11 kW in such locations.

• At a household outlet: Charging at a standard household socket with 2.3 kW can provide enough energy for more than 100 km of range overnight.

The mentioned times are approximate and depend on factors like battery condition, starting charge level, and ambient temperature. Teslas have intelligent battery and charging management systems that optimize charging, including preheating the battery when needed and adjusting power based on the charge level to protect the battery.

Tesla vehicles are equipped with an intelligent battery and charging management system that preheats the battery when necessary, optimizes the charging process, and adjusts the charging power as needed. This means charging may be faster when the battery level is low and slower when it is high to protect the battery.

It is recommended to check the estimated charging time and available charging stations before a trip or longer charging session to ensure enough time is allocated for charging.

The high power output of Superchargers allows Tesla drivers to continue their journey with minimal waiting time.

From one charging station to the next across Europe

Whether you’re traveling for vacation or business with a Tesla vehicle, the Tesla Supercharger network provides a convenient and reliable solution for fast charging across Europe, including Switzerland. Even as a newcomer to electric vehicles, you can confidently get into a Tesla today and travel from Munich to Porto or Tromsø without worrying about running out of range.

With a growing number of Supercharger locations along major highways and in urban areas, you can easily drive from one Supercharger to the next to quickly recharge your battery. Whether you’re covering a long distance or charging your battery for the return trip, Supercharger locations provide a seamless and practical charging experience.

What is free Supercharging?

Free Supercharging refers to the ability of certain Tesla vehicles to charge at Supercharger stations without cost. In the past, Tesla offered various programs that allowed specific vehicle models to receive a limited amount of free Supercharger sessions.

Originally, the concept of free Supercharging was introduced as an incentive for early Tesla customers. These customers received a certain amount of free Supercharger access as part of the “Supercharging Free for Life” program. However, the exact terms and extent of free Supercharging have been adjusted by Tesla over time.

Tesla regularly reviews and updates its offers and programs. The availability of free Supercharging may vary depending on the purchase date, model, and regional differences. Tesla typically communicates the specific terms and benefits regarding free Supercharging to vehicle owners.

Please note that free Supercharging is not available for all Tesla vehicles or all Tesla customers. In most cases, Tesla drivers must pay for charging at Supercharger stations.

For accurate information, please consult the official Tesla website.

Can I charge a Tesla anywhere?

Tesla vehicles can be charged at various types of charging stations, but the accessibility and compatibility vary depending on the type of charger and charging network.

Here are the common options for charging a Tesla:

1. Tesla Supercharger: The Tesla Supercharger network is specifically designed for Tesla vehicles, offering fast charging with high power along highways and major routes.

2. Destination Charger: Tesla also operates Destination Chargers located at hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, and other locations. These chargers are typically reserved for Tesla vehicles and offer slower charging speeds compared to Superchargers.

3. Public charging stations: There is a growing number of public charging stations operated by various third-party providers. These stations can be equipped with different connector types, such as Type 2 or CCS, and are accessible to a broader range of electric vehicles.

4. Home charging station: Tesla offers Wall Connectors, which allow you to conveniently charge your Tesla vehicle at home. These stations require installation by an electrician and provide a reliable and convenient overnight charging solution.

5. Household outlet: Using the standard “Gen 2 Universal Mobile Connector” included with the vehicle, a Tesla can be charged at any household outlet with up to 2.7 kW.

How can I rent a Tesla and benefit from the advantages of the Supercharger fast charging network?

With Veltyx, a Tesla rental specialist near Munich, you can rent a Tesla, even as a newcomer to electric vehicles, and easily charge it at Superchargers across Europe, including Switzerland, for your business trips or vacations.

Supercharger conclusion

The Tesla Supercharger fast charging network in Europe has revolutionized how electric vehicles are charged during long-distance travel. The strategically placed locations, integration into Tesla’s vehicle navigation system, fast charging times, and exclusive use for Tesla vehicles make the Supercharger network an attractive option for Tesla drivers and, increasingly, for non-Tesla drivers. With the continuous expansion of the network, Tesla is making it increasingly convenient to charge electric vehicles in Europe, contributing to the promotion of e-mobility.