Going on a road trip with a Tesla is an exciting experience. Not only do you get to enjoy the smooth ride and advanced features of one of the most popular electric cars in the world, but you also get to explore new places without worrying about running out of gas.
However, one question that comes up frequently among Tesla owners is how to charge their car during a road trip. In this article, we will discuss the different ways you can charge your Tesla on a road trip.
Charging Options
There are several ways to charge your Tesla on a road trip, including:
- Superchargers
- Destination chargers
- Public charging stations
- Mobile charging units
Superchargers
Superchargers are Tesla’s proprietary fast-charging stations that can provide up to 170 miles of range in just 30 minutes. They are strategically located along major highways and in popular cities, making them convenient for road trips. Superchargers are usually located near restaurants, shopping centers, and other amenities so that you can take a break while your car charges.
To use a Supercharger, simply navigate to the nearest station using your car’s navigation system or the Tesla app. Once you arrive at the station, plug in your car and start charging. Payment for Supercharging is handled automatically through your Tesla account.
Destination Chargers
Destination chargers are slower chargers that are meant for overnight stays at hotels, resorts, and other destinations. They provide up to 30 miles of range per hour of charging and are free for guests to use.
To find destination chargers during your road trip, use the “Find Us” feature on the Tesla website or app. Simply enter your destination city or ZIP code and select “Destination Charging” from the options. You can also ask the hotel or resort staff if they have a Tesla charger available.
Public Charging Stations
Public charging stations are third-party chargers that are available for use by all electric cars, including Teslas. They provide a range of charging speeds and may require payment or a subscription to use.
To find public charging stations during your road trip, use the “Find Us” feature on the Tesla website or app and select “Other Charging.” You can also use third-party apps like PlugShare and ChargePoint to search for charging stations along your route.
Mobile Charging Units
If you plan to go off-road or visit remote areas with limited access to charging stations, you can also bring a mobile charging unit with you. Tesla offers several portable chargers that can be plugged into any standard outlet, including the Wall Connector, Mobile Connector, and NEMA adapters.
To purchase a mobile charging unit, visit the Tesla website or contact your nearest Tesla store. Keep in mind that these units are slower than Superchargers and destination chargers, so you may need to plan ahead and allow more time for charging.
Tips for Road Trips
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your road trip with a Tesla:
- Plan your route ahead of time and identify Superchargers, destination chargers, and public charging stations along the way.
- Charge your car up to 80% before leaving home to ensure that you have enough range to reach the first charger.
- Check real-time availability of Superchargers using the Tesla app before arriving at the station.
- Use in-car entertainment features like Netflix and YouTube while your car is charging at a Supercharger or destination charger.
- Bring a portable charger with you in case of emergencies or unexpected detours.
Conclusion
Charging your Tesla on a road trip is easy and convenient thanks to Tesla’s network of Superchargers, destination chargers, and public charging stations. By planning ahead and following these tips, you can enjoy a stress-free journey while reducing your carbon footprint and saving money on gas. Happy travels!