Tesla is currently testing the potential of upgrading its existing Supercharger V4 stations with V3 cabinets to support charging rates exceeding 300 kilowatts.
The Supercharger community stands out as one of the premier fast-charging communities globally, making it difficult to refute this assertion.
This resource is undoubtedly the most comprehensive, versatile, and trustworthy.
Despite its efforts to catch up with the competition, the product still lags behind due to one significant drawback – an uncompetitive price point that is consistently higher than its rivals.
In 2016, during discussions surrounding the Supercharger V3, I asked whether the latest iteration of Tesla’s high-speed charging technology could potentially support 350-kilowatt charging. In response, Tesla CEO Elon Musk dismissed the idea, labeling 350 kW as a “toy” for children.
Despite initial ambitions, the Supercharger V3 ultimately peaked at a modest 250 kilowatts. The company previously focused on supporting Tesla vehicles, but it’s now expanding its network to accommodate non-Tesla electric vehicles (EVs), many of which can charge at speeds of up to 400 kilowatts. Similarly, several other charging stations are capable of delivering power at this high rate, offering users a cost-effective option for recharging their vehicles.
Although Tesla has progressed to implementing the Supercharger V4, this development has been met with disappointment due to the fact that the company is only installing new charging stations while still utilizing outdated V3 cabinets to power them.
These stations are known as Supercharger V3+.
While the Supercharger V4 does boast a capacity for 350 kW charging, it’s essential for Tesla to first roll out its newly designed cabinets to facilitate this feature.
Tesla’s lead engineer, Wes Morrill, has disclosed that the company is currently testing several V3+ charging stations capable of delivering power output in excess of 320 kilowatts.
Without elaborating on the contingency plan if the trial yields a positive outcome, he remained tight-lipped about his next moves.
Tesla currently operates approximately 60,000 Superchargers across more than 6,000 locations worldwide.
Electrek’s Take
It seems Tesla may reconsider replacing some current V4 Superchargers with newer, more efficient models, as they appear to be getting a better return on investment from these upgraded cabinets.
That’s encouraging information. By shortening charging periods within the community, you amplify its potential.
Tesla is endeavouring to achieve this precise objective.
