If you’re planning a road trip in your Tesla, one of the most important questions you might have is how long it takes to charge your vehicle on the go. The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the model of your Tesla, the charging equipment available on your route, and your driving habits.
The Model Matters
Different models of Tesla have different battery sizes and charging capabilities. The Model S and Model X Long Range versions can travel up to 370 miles on a single charge, while the Model 3 Long Range can go up to 353 miles.
The Model Y Long Range has a range of up to 326 miles. However, keep in mind that these ranges are based on ideal driving conditions, so if you’re driving in cold weather or uphill terrain, your range may be lower.
Charging Stations Availability
The availability of charging stations along your route is also an important factor to consider when planning a road trip in your Tesla. Superchargers are Tesla’s proprietary fast-charging stations that can add up to 200 miles of range in just 15 minutes. These stations are located strategically across major highways and cities across North America, Europe, and Asia.
The availability of Superchargers varies depending on the location and time of day. During peak travel season or holidays, Supercharger stations may be more crowded than usual, which could add some wait time for charging.
If there are no Superchargers along your route or if they are too far apart, you can also use third-party charging networks such as EVgo or ChargePoint. These networks have their own apps and pricing structures separate from Tesla’s Supercharger network.
Charging Speeds
The speed at which you charge your Tesla also depends on several factors such as the battery level when you start charging, the type of charger being used (Supercharger or Level 2 charger), and the charging rate of your Tesla model.
For example, a Model S Long Range can charge at a rate of up to 200 kilowatts (kW) at a Supercharger station, while a Model 3 Long Range can charge at up to 250 kW. However, keep in mind that the charging rate may slow down as the battery level approaches full capacity.
Charging Time
So, how long does it take to charge a Tesla on a road trip? Here are some estimates based on different scenarios:
- Supercharging from 10% to 80%: About 40-50 minutes for most Tesla models
- Supercharging from 10% to 100%: About 75-90 minutes for most Tesla models
- Level 2 charging from empty to full using a NEMA 14-50 outlet (240 volts): About 8-10 hours for most Tesla models
Tips for Faster Charging on Road Trips
If you want to minimize your charging time during a road trip, here are some tips:
- Avoid letting your battery level drop below 10%, as this can slow down the charging rate.
- Try to plan your route around Supercharger stations and check their availability before heading out.
- Avoid charging to full capacity unless you need it, as this can also slow down the charging rate.
- If possible, try to charge during off-peak hours or use third-party networks with lower pricing structures.
- Use regenerative braking and other energy-saving features while driving to maximize your vehicle’s range.
The Bottom Line
In summary, the time it takes to charge your Tesla on a road trip depends on several factors such as your Tesla model, the availability of charging stations, the charging speed, and your driving habits. Planning ahead and following some simple tips can help you minimize your charging time and enjoy a smoother road trip experience.