Tesla has finally opened up its Supercharger network to allow non-Tesla EVs to charge in North America. We recently tested the new “magic dock” interface on a 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning at the Brewster, New York, Supercharger location. Eight Tesla Supercharger locations in New York and two in California have been outfitted with the magic dock upgrade and are open for use.
To access the magic dock Superchargers, EV owners need to first download the Tesla app and enter a credit card for billing. The cost of charging varies from location to location, but all of the New York locations besides Red Hook are charging $0.49 per kWh, with Red Hook at $0.51, and Both California locations cost $0.52 per kWh. Tesla is also offering a membership that costs $12.99 per month which offers reduced rates. With the membership, all of the New York locations cost $0.39 per kWh and the California locations cost $0.42 per kWh.
Using the app is very simple, and the vehicle connected and began charging very quickly. The CCS adapter becomes locked to the Tesla connector once a user enables a charging session from the app. To end a charging session you can either stop charging from the vehicle or from the Tesla app. We charged the F-150 Lightning from 25% to 80% in multiple charging sessions and the charging rate started out at 125 kW and peaked at 128 kW before lowering to 115 kW at 80% state of charge.
The short cable is a big issue, one that we imagine Tesla is already planning to remedy one way or the other. Non-Tesla vehicles will often need to take up two Supercharger stalls because they will be plugging into the supercharger meant for the adjoining stall – and that’s if they can get the cable to reach their charge port.
Overall, it was an overall very good charging experience. Tesla’s move to open access to other EV makes is a welcome one, but it remains to be seen how it will affect the public charging experience for Tesla owners.
FAQ
Q1: Are electric car batteries recyclable?
A1: Yes, electric car batteries are recyclable.
Q2: Are electric car chargers free?
A2: It depends on the charger and the location. Some electric car chargers are free, while others may require a fee.
Q3: Can electric car batteries be rebuilt?
A3: Yes, electric car batteries can be rebuilt with the right tools and knowledge.
