Tesla Follows Apple's Lead: Charging Cables Sold Separately

In a move reminiscent of Apple's strategy shift with the iPhone, Tesla has announced that it will no longer include charging cables with its electric vehicles sold after April 17th, 2022. CEO Elon Musk confirmed this decision via Twitter, likening it to Apple's move to exclude wall adapters from iPhone packages in 2020.

Musk justified this decision by citing low usage statistics for the mobile connector, echoing Apple's reasoning of reducing environmental impact through minimized packaging. While some Tesla owners may rarely use the included cable, its absence leaves others without a crucial backup option, particularly for emergencies or when far from dedicated charging stations.

Unlike traditional car manufacturers, Tesla's charging cable served as a backup for users, allowing them to charge from standard outlets at a slow pace, albeit providing a few miles of range per hour. However, many Tesla owners opt for faster charging solutions such as high-powered Supercharging stations or dedicated home chargers, which Tesla offers separately for $495.

What does this mean for Tesla buyers?

The exclusion of charging cables from Tesla's vehicle packages has significant implications for prospective buyers. Traditionally, Tesla vehicles came bundled with essential accessories, including charging solutions. Now, buyers will need to reconsider their charging options and factor in additional costs.

In response to the negative feedback from Tesla enthusiasts, Musk stated that Tesla would reduce the price of the mobile connector by $75, bringing it down to $200. Additionally, he mentioned plans to streamline the ordering process, although the product's availability on Tesla's website remains uncertain due to reported stock shortages.

What alternatives are worth considering?

As Tesla shifts its approach to including charging cables with its vehicles, Tesla buyers are exploring alternative charging solutions to meet their needs. Fortunately, several options are available beyond Tesla's proprietary NACS (North American Charging Standard) connector:

Lectron Portable Level 1 Tesla EV Charger | 110V | 15 Amp | NEMA 5-15

The Lectron Portable Level 1 Tesla EV Charger provides an affordable and convenient solution for Tesla owners seeking to charge their vehicles using standard 110V or 120V outlets. Offering 15 Amps of charging current through a NEMA 5-15 plug, this charger delivers 1.65 kW, making it suitable for home, outdoor, or on-the-go charging needs. With an emphasis on overnight charging, it adds an extra 40-50 miles of range without significant cost. Compatible with Tesla Models S/X/3/Y and other EVs following the North American Charging Standard (NACS), its portability makes it ideal for travel or visiting friends, offering convenience wherever you need to charge your Tesla.

Lectron Portable Level 2 Tesla EV Charger | 240V | 40 Amp | NEMA 14-50

Designed for seamless compatibility with all Tesla models and other EVs utilizing the North American Charging Standard (NACS), the Lectron Portable Level 2 Tesla EV Charger provides up to 36 miles of range per hour of charge and a maximum output of 9.6 kW/40 Amp using a NEMA 14-50 outlet (dependent on model and breaker size). The 16 ft cable offers flexibility and versatility for at-home or on-the-go charging needs, while LED indicator lights provide real-time charging status updates and alerts for user convenience.

Lectron Home Level 2 NACS Tesla V-BOX Pro EV Charging Station | 240V | 48 Amp | NEMA 14-50 / Hardwired

The Lectron Home Level 2 NACS Tesla V-BOX Pro EV Charging Station offers powerful and flexible charging options for all Tesla models. With multiple amp settings (16, 32, 40 & 48A), it provides versatile charging solutions to suit individual preferences and requirements. Installation is hassle-free, with options for plugging into a NEMA 14-50 outlet (up to 40A) or hardwired connection (up to 48A), alongside a 16 ft cable for convenient EV access. The sleek V-shaped LED indicator provides clear status updates, ensuring user-friendly operation. Additionally, the charging station includes a storage mount for streamlined cable organization, protecting it from wear and tear.

For previous owners of non-Tesla EVs, you may hold onto your charger a bit longer as you can use it to charge your Tesla. Using the Lectron J1772 to Tesla EV Adapter, you can access any Level 1 and Level 2 charging stations without worrying about compatibility issues. Simply connect the adapter to the SAE J1772 charger, then connect it to your Tesla vehicle and start charging.

While Tesla's decision to exclude EV chargers from car purchases may initially raise concerns among buyers, it also opens the door to exploring alternative charging solutions that offer flexibility, convenience, and affordability. As the transition to electric mobility accelerates, consumers can expect continued innovation and expansion in charging infrastructure, ensuring seamless experiences for EV owners worldwide.