Good news! Tesla continues to expand its Supercharger network globally, allowing non-Tesla vehicles to charge at Tesla Superchargers in France and Norway. The Model S Plaid maker wants to test this pilot program before further expansion, but what’s in it for the non-Tesla group?
The automaker has opened the Tesla Supercharger Network to more non-Tesla vehicles
Tesla Superchargers for Tesla electric vehicles | Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images
According to Tesla, the automaker launched a new non-Tesla Supercharger pilot program in November 2021. Tesla will continue to expand the pilot program to new countries and new chargers in the upcoming months. Those in charge know that having access to convenient and accessible options to charge an electric vehicle quickly is vital to the overall adoption of EVs.
“It’s always been our ambition to open the Supercharger network to Non-Tesla EVs, and by doing so, encourage more drivers to go electric.”
Tesla
The electric vehicle manufacturer now has 30,000 Superchargers around the world. Thanks to the non-Tesla Supercharger pilot, people in France and Norway can now use these stations. Drivers must have the Tesla app updated with version 4.2.3 or higher to participate. For now, the Model 3 maker says it will be monitoring the Tesla Supercharger locations for congestion and other problems.
Non-Tesla EVs using Tesla Superchargers will help the network expand, but they also have to pay more
Non-Tesla vehicles can now charge at select Superchargers in France and Norway via the Tesla app. Learn more at https://t.co/9t43ifJugM pic.twitter.com/CC4fpaNPaw
— Tesla Charging (@TeslaCharging) January 31, 2022
Tesla says that as more people and electric vehicles use the network, it will help it expand more. This project aims to learn and adapt quickly so that the Tesla Supercharger network will continue to grow. Ideally, quick learning and improvements will mean that Tesla and non-Tesla vehicles can use the network worldwide soon enough.
This program is live in France, the Netherlands, and Norway. Tesla says that the pilot program is limited to those who live in France, the Netherlands, Norway, Germany, and Belgium. As people continue to use these chargers, the plan further expands into other areas. Future charging sites for non-Tesla drivers will only open if there is capacity.
Some drivers wondered if Tesla drivers have any added benefits to opening the sites up to other electric vehicles. The Tesla app will offer drivers the best experience, along with optimized route planning and pre-conditioning for the batteries. It also offers drivers the lowest pricing, which means others will be paying more with other EVs.
Those attempting to use the site without a Tesla vehicle will pay more for the same charging. Tesla says that the price will be higher to help support the charging and opening of the sites. Like regular chargers, pricing varies from site to site. Those who opt for a charging membership will be able to get discounted rates. The rates can be found in the Tesla app.
What does the fine print say?
For now, only CCS-enabled EVs can take part in the Supercharger program. If you attempt to charge and the cable doesn’t fit, you can report it to Tesla Customer Service, and the team will investigate later. In addition, idle fees will apply to both parties. If you linger at a Supercharger for too long after the charge, Tesla will charge you.
As this non-Tesla Supercharger pilot program continues to expand, keep an eye out for more charging opportunities. If you happen to live in one of these areas, check out the situation for yourself.
Keyword: Non-Tesla Vehicles Can Charge at Tesla Superchargers in France and Norway, but There’s a Catch