How To Charge Non-Tesla EVs at Tesla Superchargers

How To Charge Non-Tesla EVs at Tesla Superchargers

Tesla’s Supercharger network is well-known for its speed and accessibility, and it has been developed specifically for Tesla vehicles. In recent years, Tesla’s Supercharger network has evolved significantly, transitioning from an exclusive charging solution for Tesla vehicles to a more inclusive infrastructure that welcomes non-Tesla electric vehicles. 

Tesla has announced that non-Tesla vehicles would be able to use a part of its Supercharging network in select Canadian locations beginning in late 2023. The Non-Tesla Supercharger Pilot Program will progressively extend across Canada (including the Trans-Canada Highway from Ottawa to Calgary), eventually adding hundreds of additional charging stalls.

The first Supercharging stations have been launched in two Ontario locations: North Bay and Deep River, each with six Supercharging stations capable of charging at speeds of up to 250 kW. Non-Tesla EV owners will be able to use the Tesla app to access the Superchargers. With this development, non-Tesla EV drivers can now take advantage of Tesla’s extensive network of Superchargers, further incentivizing the adoption of electric vehicles.

For non-Tesla EV owners, gaining access to Tesla’s Supercharger network unlocks many benefits, including high-speed charging, extensive charging coverage, and the convenience of a well-established and dependable charging network. Charging a non-Tesla EV at a Tesla Supercharger is straightforward, but make sure your vehicle is compatible with Tesla’s charging ports and understand how to use Tesla Superchargers to maximize benefits.

How To Charge Non-Tesla EVs at Tesla Superchargers?

Finding a Tesla Supercharger Station

Identifying nearby Tesla Supercharger stations is simple for Tesla owners, but non-Tesla EV owners will need to do a little homework and keep in mind that not all Tesla Supercharger locations are open to the public. Various web resources and smartphone applications provide real-time information on the location and availability of Tesla Superchargers, allowing drivers to schedule their charging stops more easily.

Downloading and Setting Up the Tesla App

The first step toward using Tesla Superchargers is to download the Tesla app from the app store and install it on your smartphone. Aside from identifying a Supercharger location, Tesla Supercharger stations do not take contactless payments and do not have a screen, therefore all charging must be done through the app. 

After you’ve downloaded the app, select the ‘Charge my non-Tesla’ button and start navigating. You’ll find a list of Tesla chargers near you, along with their speeds and if they’re open to the public. Creating a Tesla account within the app allows users to access a range of features, including Supercharger usage for non-Tesla vehicles. The app displays the location’s facilities, price, and number of stalls available. 

Ensuring Compatible When Charging Non-Tesla EVs at Superchargers

While Tesla Superchargers are designed for Tesla models, some non-Tesla EVs can indeed use them. However, compatibility depends on the charging port and connector type of the non-Tesla vehicle. For non-Tesla EVs equipped with CCS-enabled (Combined Charging System) or CHAdeMO charging ports, Tesla offers adapters to connect to Superchargers. Tesla Supercharger is unable to accommodate vehicles that do not fully comply with CCS communication and safety protocols.

Ensuring compatibility with Tesla Superchargers is essential, particularly for non-Tesla EVs equipped with CCS connectors. Verifying compatibility ensures a seamless charging experience and prevents any safety risks that may arise during the charging process. 

Plugging in and Start Charging

To start a charging session at a Tesla Supercharger, plug in the charging connector to the vehicle’s charging port and follow the steps in the Tesla app seems straightforward. However, if you own a Tesla, you can simply plug in and the charging session begins instantly because the charger recognizes the vehicle and vice versa. 

For Non-Tesla EVs, the situation becomes a little bit more complicated. Since Tesla chargers are intended for use with vehicles that have a charging port in the back on the passenger side, and if your car’s port is in a different area, you’ll have to be creative with your parking. After parking next to the charging stall, select “Unlock Adapter.” Once you’ve done that, you should be able to disconnect the Tesla charger plug with the Magic Dock; now all you have to do is put it into your charging port and start charging your EV.

Monitoring the Charging Process 

Tesla app provides real-time updates on charging status, monitoring the charging process via the app enabling users to track charging progress, monitor battery levels, and receive notifications upon completion. 

Starting a charging session is a simple process through the app, after plugging in, select the charger number from the app and tap ‘Get Started’. With the Tesla app, you can go take a walk or have a coffee while the Supercharger works. After finishing a charge, simply press the ‘Stop Charge’ button on the app, and the session will stop. 

How Much Does It Cost To Charge Non-Tesla EVs at Tesla Superchargers?

Membership Options and Savings

Tesla provides membership options for regular Supercharger users, which include lower charging rates and additional benefits. Non-Tesla EV drivers in Canada can purchase a Supercharging membership for $16.99 per month, just like they do at non-Tesla Supercharger stations in the United States, Europe, and Australia. With that membership, non-Tesla EV customers will pay the same rate as Tesla owners, which is now $0.47/kWh at Deep River and $0.48/kWh at North Bay.

Non-Member Charging Rates

Non-members are subject to standard charging rates, which may vary depending on factors such as location, regional electricity prices, charging station availability, and certain Supercharger stations also offer on-peak and off-peak rates. 

The typical cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for non-member users with most Superchargers at around $0.50 to $0.60 per kWh. For example, In Ontario, the Etobicoke station has a higher rate at $0.60 per kWh between 12:00 pm and 8:00 pm and the lowest off-peak rate is $0.29/kWh between 12:00 am and 4:00 am. 

Idle Fees

Tesla imposes idle fees on vehicles that stay in Supercharger stalls after the charging session is completed, discouraging lengthy occupation and encouraging efficient charging behavior. If a vehicle parks at a Supercharger after the full charge has been reached, the idle fees start being charged at $0.50 per minute in Canada.

To summarize, the evolution of Tesla’s Supercharger network is an important step toward promoting electric mobility and supporting sustainable transportation infrastructure. Tesla has promoted collaboration and innovation within the electric vehicle ecosystem by making Superchargers available to non-Tesla owners, improving accessibility and usability for all EV drivers.

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