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Tesla Destination Charger: Everything You Need to Know

Tesla Destination Charger: Everything You Need to Know

Tesla's Destination Charger network is an important part of the company's commitment to electrifying transportation. These chargers are just like your regular Tesla Wall Connector, only, strategically installed at various locations such as hotels, restaurants, and parking garages, giving you easy access to charging infrastructure while going about your everyday activities.

What is a Tesla Destination Charger?

A Tesla Destination Charger is a level 2 electric vehicle (EV) charger designed specifically for Tesla vehicles. Unlike Tesla Superchargers, which are primarily located along highways for long-distance travel, Tesla's Destination Chargers are strategically placed at destinations where Tesla owners are likely to spend extended periods. This includes hotels, resorts, restaurants, shopping centers, and other public places.

These chargers provide a slower but convenient way to charge your Tesla while you engage in other activities. Tesla collaborates with various businesses to install Destination Chargers, offering a win-win scenario for both Tesla owners and the host establishments. Tesla drivers get access to charging, and businesses attract environmentally conscious customers who drive electric vehicles.

How to Use a Tesla Destination Charger

  1. Locate the Charger: If you're not already in the Destination Charger location, filter the available charging stations by type on the Tesla app or on the website.

  2. Park Your Tesla: Park your EV in a parking spot near the Tesla charger. Ensure that the charging cable can reach your vehicle without any tension.

  3. Plug In: Open the charging port on your Tesla and connect the provided Tesla charging cable to your vehicle's port and the Destination Charger.

  4. Initiate Charging: Once connected, the charging process should begin automatically. If not, check your Tesla's touchscreen display for any prompts to start the charging session. Most Tesla models allow you to start and stop charging from the touchscreen.

  5. Monitor Charging: You can monitor the charging progress on your Tesla's touchscreen display or through the Tesla mobile app. It provides real-time information about the charging rate, estimated time to complete, and the amount of energy added.

  6. Complete Charging: Once your Tesla is sufficiently charged or you are ready to leave, simply unplug the charging cable, return it to the charger, and continue your journey.

Monitoring Your Charging

Tesla provides several convenient ways to monitor your charging session:

  1. Touchscreen Display: Most Tesla models have a touchscreen display that provides real-time information about the charging process, including charging speed, estimated time to complete, and energy added.

  2. Tesla Mobile App: The Tesla mobile app allows you to remotely monitor and control your vehicle, including charging. You can check the charging status, receive notifications when charging is complete, and even start or stop charging remotely.

  3. Charging History: Tesla keeps a record of your charging sessions in your vehicle's history, which you can access through the touchscreen display or the mobile app. This helps you keep track of your charging habits and expenses.

Charger Speed by Tesla Model

The charging speed at Tesla Destination Chargers can vary depending on your Tesla model and the charger's capacity. The bigger the battery, the longer it takes to charge. Here's a guide to how many miles you can add in one hour of charging with a Destination Charger using a 60-amp circuit breaker with a max output of 48 amps.

If you use a Tesla destination charger on a lower-power circuit, you may not get as many miles as shown in the table above. When you connect to a Tesla destination charger, both the Tesla app and the main screen of your car will show how fast it's charging.

Keep in mind that if you're charging in really hot or cold conditions, the charging process might be slower. This is because the battery has to use extra energy to cool or heat the inside of the car. Also, extreme weather can cause the battery to lose charge faster. So, if you leave your EV parked overnight in the cold, you'll see a noticeable drop in range.

If you want to optimize your Tesla's performance and charging speed in extreme weather conditions, it's advisable to learn how to precondition your Tesla battery to help maintain its efficiency and range.

How much does it cost to use a Tesla Destination Charger?

The cost to use a Tesla Destination Charger varies depending on where you are. However, many Destination Chargers offer free charging to Tesla owners as an incentive to attract business. So, if that's the case, you won't be shelling out extra money beyond what you pay for your meal, hotel stay, or other services at the establishment.

Now, some businesses might ask you to pay for using their Destination Chargers. It could be a flat fee for each charging session or an hourly rate. Usually, though, these costs are lower than what you'd spend on gas or using a Supercharger, making Destination Chargers a budget-friendly choice for local charging.

Property managers and business owners can charge a fee for the electricity used during charging sessions using the Tesla Pay-for-Use Charging service.. But to qualify for this program, a business or property needs to have:

  • Six Wall Connectors available at their destination charger location.

  • Gen3 (third generation) Tesla Wall Connectors connected to either Wi-Fi or Cellular.

  • A signed Services Agreement with Tesla.

When considering the overall cost of owning an electric vehicle, it's also worth noting the Tesla battery cost as a significant factor in the equation.

How to Find a Tesla Destination Charger

  1. Tesla Navigation: The built-in navigation system in your Tesla vehicle can guide you to the nearest Destination Charger. Simply input your destination, and your Tesla will suggest charging locations along your route.

  2. Tesla Mobile App: The Tesla mobile app also allows you to search for Destination Chargers. You can input your destination and view nearby charging options.

  3. Tesla Website: Tesla's official website provides a map and a search feature that lets you find Destination Chargers by location. You can enter a specific address or browse by region.

  4. Third-Party Charging Apps: Many third-party EV charging apps and websites, such as PlugShare, ChargePoint, and Electrify America, also include information about Tesla Destination Chargers along with other charging options.

If you're looking for the best EV charging apps to simplify your charging experience, consider checking out these options for a comprehensive charging network overview.

What Is a Tesla Supercharger?

While Destination Chargers cater to local charging needs, Tesla Superchargers are designed for long-distance travel. These Tesla chargers are high-speed DC fast chargers that can provide a substantial amount of range in a relatively short time. Tesla's Supercharger network is strategically placed along highways and major travel routes, allowing Tesla owners to quickly charge their vehicles during road trips.

Superchargers are typically located in Tesla-owned stations and offer higher charging speeds compared to Destination Chargers. They are a valuable resource for Tesla owners when embarking on long journeys, as they significantly reduce the time spent at charging stations compared to traditional level 2 EV chargers.

Destination vs Superchargers: Which Is Better?

The choice between using a Tesla Destination Charger or a Supercharger depends on your specific needs:

Tesla Destination Charger:

  • Ideal for local charging when visiting hotels, restaurants, or shopping centers.

  • Charging speeds are slower but sufficient for overnight stays or extended visits.

  • Many Destination Chargers offer free charging or have lower charging fees.

  • Convenient for topping up your Tesla while engaging in other activities.

Tesla Supercharger:

  • Designed for long-distance travel and quick top-ups during road trips.

  • Offers high-speed charging, typically providing a significant range boost in a short time.

  • More expensive than Destination Chargers but essential for efficient long-distance travel.

  • Usually located along highways and major routes for easy access during road trips.

FAQs:

  • What is a Tesla Destination Charger?

    A Tesla Destination Charger is a Wall Connector typically located at hotels, restaurants, and other destinations. It provides slower, level 2 charging for Tesla owners while they go about their activities.

  • How quickly do Tesla destination chargers charge?

    Tesla Destination Chargers offer varying charging speeds, but they can generally provide about 35-44 miles of range per hour, depending on the charger's capacity and your Tesla model.

  • Is Destination Charging free for Tesla?

    Destination Charging may be free or have a fee, depending on the specific location. Many destinations offer free charging as an incentive, while others may charge a fee.

  • What is the difference between the Tesla Supercharger and the Destination Charger?

    Tesla Superchargers are high-speed chargers primarily located along highways for fast, long-distance travel, while Destination Chargers are slower chargers located at businesses and destinations for convenient, slower charging during stays.

  • Can any car use a Tesla destination charger?

    Tesla Destination Chargers are specifically designed for Tesla vehicles and use Tesla's proprietary connectors. However, non-Tesla EVs can use a Tesla to J1772 EV Adapter to be able to access Tesla's charging stations.

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