Charging Your Tesla Model S at Supercharger Stations: Time and Cost Considerations

Charging Your Tesla Model S at Supercharger Stations: Time and Cost Considerations

Introduction

Understanding how long it takes to charge your Tesla Model S and the associated cost can help you plan your journeys more efficiently. This article explores the specifics of charging at supercharger stations, including the time required and the cost per kWh of electricity used. Additionally, it covers charging scenarios at home and the general cost of electricity in different countries.

Charging at Home

Charging your Tesla Model S at home can be a convenient and cost-effective solution. Using a 25 installed 15A 240V 3-wire outlet with a 12A allowance for steady charging, it takes approximately 80 hours to charge the battery from 0 to 100%. However, Tesla recommends charging to approximately 50-85% when conditions permit to extend battery life and charging speed.

At a cost of 15 cents per kWh, a full charge from 0% to 100% can cost around $12 in Canada, given a full charge typically covers about 400 km (250 miles).

Charging at Supercharger Stations

Supercharger stations offer significantly faster charging times and are designed for quick recharges during longer journeys. The time it takes to charge is influenced by various factors including the type of charging station, the condition of the battery, and the model year of the Tesla Model S.

For Tesla Model S models with a 75 kWh battery, the charging time at a supercharger station can be around 20 minutes to charge from 20% to 80%. Meanwhile, a Model S with a 100 kWh battery can similarly take around 20 minutes for the same charge range, with charging times from 0% to 100% less than an hour in many cases.

However, as the battery is cold, it can take slightly longer to charge. The battery's temperature and the model year of the vehicle can affect charging efficiency and time, but these factors generally do not add more than a few minutes to the charging time.

Cost of Charging with Superchargers

The cost of charging with a supercharger can vary significantly depending on the power provider and the location. In some regions, the cost can be as low as 0.5 € per kWh, making long journeys more economical.

Assuming you are using a 300 kW charger, the cost for a 100 kWh charge could be around 50 €. However, it's important to note that many factors, including the provider's pricing structure and local electricity rates, can influence the actual cost.

Conclusion

Charging your Tesla Model S at supercharger stations is an efficient way to maintain a longer journey throughout your trip. While the time required to charge can vary based on the battery's state and the charging station's capabilities, the overall efficiency of these stations makes them a preferred choice for those who need to travel long distances.

Understanding the time and cost implications will help you plan better and maximize the benefits of your Tesla Model S's supercharger usage.