Evaluating Your Tesla Charger Options: Which One Suits You Best?
Back in April 2022, Tesla took a page out of Apple's book and stopped shipping complimentary chargers with its EVs. While this decision garnered some controversy, it opened the market for third-party manufacturers offering Tesla charging solutions, and in turn, expanded the options for Tesla owners. Let's take a look at the different Tesla charger options to help you decide which one suits you best.
Tesla Home Charging Options
Most Tesla owners are likely to choose home charging over driving a few miles away just to top-up battery. While not as quick and time-efficient as fast charging stations, the sheer convenience of plugging in your electric car anytime should outweigh any charging speed issues. With various charging options available, it's crucial to evaluate which one suits your needs best. Home charging not only offers convenience but also contributes to your EV battery health and overall efficiency.
Level 1 Chargers
Level 1 charging, also called trickle charging, refers to the basic charging option typically used at home, offering convenience for overnight charging or topping up your EV's battery slowly throughout the day. Tesla drivers have two primary options for Level 1 charging: the Tesla Mobile Connector and third-party alternatives like the Lectron Portable Level 1 Tesla EV Charger.
Tesla Mobile Connector
The Tesla Mobile Connector allows you to charge your Tesla from different outlets at low to medium speeds, providing up to 3 miles of range per hour using a standard household outlet and up to 30 miles of range per hour with a 240-volt outlet, depending on the Tesla model. The Mobile Connector bundle includes adapters for standard 120-volt household outlets (NEMA 5-15) and 240-volt outlets (NEMA 14-50), offering flexibility in charging options. Additional adapters are also available for purchase to accommodate various outlet types, including the NEMA 10-30 which is common in older houses.
Lectron Portable Level 1 Tesla EV Charger
As an alternative to Tesla's Mobile Connector, the Lectron Portable Level 1 Tesla EV Charger offers affordability and convenience. Compatible with Tesla Models S/X/3/Y and other EVs using the North American Charging Standard (NACS), this charger provides 15 Amps of charging current, delivering 1.65 kW for Tesla charging at home or anywhere with a compatible NEMA 5-15 outlet. This translates to 40-50 miles of range when you charge overnight. Unlike other third-party options, the Lectron Portable Level 1 Tesla EV Charger features a native NACS Tesla charging handle. Its portable design, overvoltage, overcurrent, and short circuit protection make it suitable for road trips or outdoor adventures.
Level 2 Chargers
Level 2 charging provides faster charging speeds compared to Level 1, making it ideal for home charging when you need to replenish Tesla vehicles more quickly. However, expect to incur additional installation costs for hardwired setups. Tesla offers the Wall Connector as its primary Level 2 charging solution, along with third-party electric vehicle charging stations like the Lectron Portable Level 2 Tesla EV Charger and the Lectron Home Level 2 NACS Tesla V-BOX Pro EV Charging Station.
Tesla Wall Connector
Image courtesy of Tesla
The Tesla Wall Connector stands out as the most convenient charging solution for homes, apartments, hospitality properties, and workplaces. With a maximum charge power of up to 44 miles of range added per hour at 11.5 kW/48 Amp, it significantly reduces charging times compared to Level 1 chargers. The Wall Connector features an auto-sensing handle to open the charge port, Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring and management via the Tesla app, and a versatile indoor/outdoor design. While installation requires a qualified electrician, Tesla provides guidance and support, including access to certified installers.
Lectron Portable Level 2 Tesla EV Charger
The Lectron Portable Level 2 Tesla EV Charger is designed for seamless compatibility with all Tesla models: Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y, as well as any EV using the North American Charging Standard (NACS). Offering fast charging with up to 36 miles of range per hour of charge and up to 9.6 kW/40 Amp output using a NEMA 14-50 outlet, its sleek and portable design makes it perfect for both home and on-the-go charging needs. Like its Level 1 counterpart, the Lectron Portable Level 2 Tesla EV Charger features a native NACS Tesla charging handle which sets it aside from other third-party options. It is FCC and Energy Star certified and has overvoltage, overcurrent, and short circuits protection. Its 16 ft cable offers flexibility and versatility, while the LED indicator lights on the control box provide real-time charging status updates and alerts, ensuring you stay informed with ease during the charging process.
Lectron Home Level 2 NACS Tesla V-BOX Pro EV Charging Station
The Lectron V-BOX Pro offers a powerful Level 2 Tesla home charging solution compatible with all Tesla models. It offers flexible charging options with multiple amp settings and versatile installation options, allowing you to either directly plug into an existing outlet (240-volt) or hardwire it to your home's electrical system. It also features an LED status indicator for user-friendly operation. Certified safe and reliable, the Lectron V-BOX Pro is suitable for various weather conditions and comes with a storage mount for cable organization.
The Cost Of Installing A Tesla Level 2 Charging Station
Installing a Tesla Level 2 charging station involves certain costs, including the charger itself, installation fees, and potentially upgrades to your electrical system. Factors such as the distance from the electrical panel, existing wiring, and installation complexity can influence the overall cost. However, many local electricity incentives and support programs are available to offset installation costs, and Tesla offers guidance in finding certified installers to ensure a smooth installation process.
Charging on the Road
In addition to home charging options, Tesla provides a comprehensive network of charging stations for on-the-go charging convenience.
Tesla Supercharger
Tesla Superchargers are high-speed DC fast charging stations strategically located along major highways and travel routes, allowing Tesla drivers to quickly recharge their vehicles during long journeys. DC EV charging stations such as the Superchargers bypass the on board charger on electric vehicles, delivering DC power to the car's battery and effectively reducing charging times. With their rapid charging capability, Supercharging stations can add hundreds of miles of range in just a short charging session, making them ideal for long-distance travel.
Tesla Destination Chargers
Tesla Destination Chargers are installed at hotels, resorts, restaurants, and other destinations, providing Tesla drivers with convenient charging options while they shop, dine, or stay overnight. These chargers offer slower charging speeds compared to Superchargers but are suitable for topping up your EV's battery while you engage in other activities.
Accessing non-Tesla chargers with Tesla EVs
Tesla has arguably the most comprehensive charging network in the country, thanks to its seamless integration of charging infrastructure with its vehicles and dedication to expanding its network. However, despite the reliability of Tesla's Supercharger network, it is still greatly outnumbered by J1772 chargers. According to a 2023 study, there are 45,000 J1772 charging stations across the US, dwarfing the 3,900 of Tesla.
In some areas, public Tesla charging stations can be few and far between. The good news is you can use charger adapters to access non-Tesla chargers -- both the J1772 and CCS ports. This opens up additional charging options for Tesla drivers who live in areas without ready access to the Tesla Supercharger network. The Lectron J1772 to Tesla EV Adapter is compatible with Tesla Models 3/Y/S/X and can be used at Level 1 and Level 2 charging stations. For those who seek faster charging speeds, the Lectron CCS to Tesla EV Adapter supports up to 150 kW charging rate.
Using Tesla Chargers with non-Tesla EVs
The Tesla charging network, also known as the North American Charging Standard (NACS) was previously a proprietary connector exclusive to Tesla EV drivers. However, non-Tesla EVs can use a Tesla to J1772 EV Adapter to charge at any Tesla High Powered Wall Connectors, all generations of Destination Chargers, and Mobile Connectors.
Most recently, Tesla has opened its Supercharger network to EVs in the NACS alliance, allowing CCS-enabled electric cars to use Superchargers with the Magic Docks. While the rollout has been slow, third-party manufacturers have come up with Supercharger-to-CCS1 adapters that non-Tesla EV drivers can manually connect to a Supercharger to enjoy its fast charging capabilities. Lectron, for instance, has launched its Vortex Plug compatible with EVs in the NACS alliance that features a CCS1 connector.
Are Tesla chargers the best option for my EV?
While Tesla recommends using their chargers designed specifically for Tesla vehicles for more seamless integration and compatibility, there are also third-party charging solutions available for non-Tesla EVs. Ultimately, the best charging option for your EV depends on factors such as charging speed, convenience, cost, and compatibility with your vehicle.
Can I use solar power to charge my EV?
Tesla drivers can charge their cars with solar power using a feature called "Charge on Solar," which allows Tesla vehicles to charge using only excess solar energy produced by the Tesla solar system. This feature maximizes the value of your home's solar system by utilizing surplus solar energy to charge your electric vehicle.
To use Charge on Solar, you need the following hardware and software:
Hardware:
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Model S, Model 3, Model X, or Model Y (with certain software versions)
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Powerwall with solar on-site
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Tesla app
Software:
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Model S, Model 3, Model X, or Model Y with software version 2023.26 or higher
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Powerwall with software version 23.12.10 or higher
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Tesla app version 4.22.5 or higher
Please note that older Tesla models and Powerwall versions may not support this feature.
Setting up Charge on Solar in the Tesla app involves following these steps:
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Open the Tesla app.
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Select your vehicle.
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Tap on "Charge on Solar."
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Follow the prompts to set your charge limit and a charge location.
Once configured, Charge on Solar will automatically charge your vehicle to the set charge limit using only extra solar energy whenever you charge at your designated location.
The Tesla app allows you to adjust charge limits using a sun slider. This slider lets your vehicle charge from any energy source, ensuring you have enough range for your daily driving needs. You can adjust charge limits in the Tesla app or from the vehicle touchscreen while your vehicle is plugged in.