How Much Does a Tesla Cost? The Price and Advantages of Each Model

By Lennon Cihak
Tesla offers a variety of models and prices, ranging from the Model 3, all the way up to the Model X Plaid.
Tesla offers a variety of models and prices, ranging from the Model 3, all the way up to the Model X Plaid.
Tesla

With gas prices soaring and EVs becoming more affordable than ever, it could not be a better time to purchase an electric vehicle. Tesla is leading that charge in terms of performance, technology and affordability.

The Austin, Texas-based automotive company has built a strong product that sells itself and recently became the most popular car worldwide. Tesla currently produces five different models, including the Model S, Model 3, Model X, the Model Y, and the Tesla Semi. The Tesla Cybertruck will join the mix later this year, and the new Roadster is expected to begin production next year.

The cost of a Tesla will range from $40,000 to almost $140,000, depending on the model and options. But before we get into the actual upfront and ownership costs, it’s helpful to understand Tesla’s mission: Accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy.

Tesla’s Mission and Master Plan

On August 2nd, 2006, co-founder and CEO Elon Musk published a blog post outlining Tesla’s master plan. It was simple:

  • Build a sports car (Tesla’s first-gen Roadster)
  • Use that money to build an affordable car (Model S, and later Model X)
  • Use that money to build an even more affordable car (Model 3 and Model Y)
  • While doing the above, also provide zero emission electric power generation options (Solar Roof, Solar Panels, Supercharging, Powerwall, Megapacks)

Tesla is now working toward their Master Plan Part 3.

What is The Cheapest Tesla Model?

The price for a Tesla ranges greatly depending on the model and upgrades you add. At the time of this article’s publishing, the Model 3, which comes in at $40,240 (before taxes and incentives) is the most affordable.

In June 2023, Tesla announced that all Model 3 variants in the United States are eligible for the $7,500 tax credit. This was due to the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which expanded certain EVs to receive a federal tax credit of up to $7,500. 

In addition to Federal tax incentives, many states offer additional incentives to EV owners.

Model 3

The Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3
Tesla

The Tesla Model 3, introduced in 2017, revolutionized the electric vehicle market by making cutting-edge technology and sustainable transportation more accessible to the masses. As Tesla's entry-level sedan, the Model 3 combines sleek design with impressive performance and an exceptional range of up to 333 miles, making it a compelling choice for those who prefer a smaller, nimble vehicle. 

With seating for five passengers and a spacious interior, the Model 3 provides comfort without compromising on style. Its minimalist yet futuristic interior features Tesla's signature touchscreen infotainment system and a host of advanced driver-assistance features, including Autopilot. The Model 3's affordability, eco-friendly credentials, and thrilling driving experience propelled it to become one of the best-selling electric cars worldwide, showcasing Tesla's commitment to accelerating the global shift towards sustainable and emission-free transportation.

Model 3 Standard Range

  • Price: $40,240
  • Range: 272 miles
  • Weight: 3,862 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 5.8 sec
  • Top Speed: 140 mph

Model 3 AWD (All-Wheel Drive)

  • Price: $47,240
  • Range: 315 - 333 miles
  • Weight: 4,034 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 4.2 sec
  • Top Speed: 145 mph

Model 3 Performance

  • Price: $51,640
  • Range: 315 miles
  • Weight: 4,048 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 3.1 sec
  • Top Speed: 162 mph

The Model 3 Performance also comes with the Performance Upgrade package: 

  • Increased top speed from 135mph to 155mph
  • 21’’ Überturbine Wheels
  • Performance Brakes
  • Lowered suspension
  • Aluminum alloy pedals
  • Carbon fiber spoiler

Model Y

The Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y
Tesla

The Tesla Model Y, introduced in 2020, represents a compelling addition to Tesla's lineup of electric vehicles. As a compact all-electric SUV, the Model Y combines the best of the Model 3 sedan's platform with the versatility and practicality of their higher-end Model X. Offering seating for up to seven passengers and a spacious cargo area, the Model Y is designed to accommodate families and adventure-seekers alike.

With its sleek and modern design, the Model Y exudes an air of sophistication while boasting impressive performance capabilities, including rapid acceleration and an impressive electric driving range of up to 330 miles on a single charge. Tesla's commitment to cutting-edge technology is evident in the Model Y, with features such as the expansive touchscreen infotainment system and advanced driver-assistance features like Autopilot. As an integral part of Tesla's mission to accelerate the world's transition to sustainable energy, the Model Y represents a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile, affordable, and high-performance electric SUV.

Model Y Standard Range

  • Price: $47,740
  • Range: 279 miles
  • Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 5 sec
  • Top Speed: 135 mph

Model Y Long Range

  • Price: $50,490
  • Range: 330 miles
  • Weight: 4,386 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 4.8 sec
  • Top Speed: 135 mph

Model Y Performance

  • Price: $54,490
  • Range: 303 miles
  • Weight: 4,439 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 3.5 sec
  • Top Speed: 155 mph

Who is Model Y For?

Tesla's Model Y is designed for families, practicality seekers, urban dwellers, commuters, crossover enthusiasts, tech enthusiasts, environmentally conscious consumers, and those seeking a blend of luxury and performance. It offers the practicality of a compact SUV, advanced technology, electric drivetrain benefits, and a versatile driving experience to meet the diverse needs and preferences of a wide range of consumers.

Model Y is one of the best-selling vehicles in the world. The price comes in a couple thousand more than Model 3. Model Y comes with more front and rear headroom, legroom, an optional third row, and 34.3-cubic-foot in cargo space.

What is The Most Expensive Tesla Model?

The most expensive vehicle Tesla makes is its 2.7-ton SUV, the Model X. Model X Plaid with Ultra Red paint and 22-inch turbine wheels, among other additions and customizations, drifts in at more than triple the price of the base Model 3 at $133,990. The Model X being one of Tesla’s most luxurious vehicles comes with high-end features, including ventilated seats, more cargo room, a towing package for up to 5,000 pounds, additional seating options, 325+ miles of range, and mind-altering performance with a 0-60 mph speed in 2.5 seconds.

Model X

The Tesla Model X
The Tesla Model X
Tesla

The Tesla Model X, introduced in 2015, represents a groundbreaking milestone in electric vehicles. The Model X boasts a falcon-wing door system, providing easy access to its spacious interior, which can comfortably seat up to seven passengers. Powered by Tesla’s state-of-the-art Autopilot system, panoramic windshield, and industry-leading infotainment system further elevate the driving experience. With a price range typically starting from $98,000 to $134,000, the Tesla Model X caters to discerning consumers seeking both sustainability and luxury on their commutes.

Model X (base)

  • Price: $98,490
  • Range: 348 miles
  • Weight: 5,185 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 3.8 sec
  • Top Speed: 149 mph

Model X Plaid

  • Price: $108,490
  • Range: 333 miles
  • Weight: 5,390 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Tri-Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 2.5 sec
  • Top Speed: 149 mph

Who is Model X For?

Tesla's Model X caters to a diverse range of consumers, including families, adventure enthusiasts, tech enthusiasts, luxury seekers, and environmentally conscious individuals. It addresses their specific needs by providing ample space, impressive performance, advanced technology, luxurious features, and a sustainable driving experience.

The Model X comes with additional luxurious features when compared to Tesla's other models. These include cooled seats, air suspension, falcon-wing doors, auto-opening and closing doors, better noise isolation, a premium noise-canceling sound system, premium materials, an instrument cluster, and a rear screen. 

Model S

The Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S
Tesla

The Tesla Model S, launched in 2012, remains a groundbreaking electric sedan that continues to set the standard for innovation and luxury in the automotive industry. As Tesla's flagship vehicle, the Model S combines elegant design, exceptional performance, and advanced technology. 

With its sleek and aerodynamic exterior, the Model S not only stands out on the road but also achieves remarkable electric range, thanks to its cutting-edge battery technology. Inside the cabin, passengers experience a refined and spacious environment, complemented by Tesla's signature 17-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an array of premium features. The Model S accelerates with astonishing speed, demonstrating the capabilities of electric propulsion while maintaining a smooth and silent ride. 

Tesla has continuously updated the Model S with over-the-air software updates, improving performance and adding new features, further solidifying its reputation as an industry-leading electric vehicle. As one of the pioneering electric cars, the Model S exemplifies Tesla's dedication to sustainable transportation, leaving an indelible mark on the automotive landscape.

Model S (base)

  • Price: $88,490
  • Range: 405 miles
  • Weight: 4,561 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 3.1 sec
  • Top Speed: 149 mph

Model S Plaid

  • Price: $108,490
  • Range: 396 miles
  • Weight: 4,766 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Tri-Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 1.99 sec
  • Top Speed: 200 mph

Who is Model S For?

Tesla's Model S is designed for electric vehicle enthusiasts, performance seekers, luxury car buyers, technology enthusiasts, eco-conscious consumers, and business executives. It offers a seamless blend of technology, performance, luxury, and sustainability, making it an appealing choice for those who seek an extraordinary electric driving experience.

The Model S also comes with more luxurious features when compared to the Model 3 and Model Y. These include cooled seats, air suspension, auto-appearing door handles, better noise isolation, a noise-canceling premium sound system, premium materials, an instrument cluster, and a rear screen. 

It’s worth noting that Tesla changes its pricing frequently. All the above models were priced with the free paint, standard interior and wheels, and basic Autopilot.

Cybertruck

The Tesla Cybertruck
The Tesla Cybertruck
MatthewDR/Twitter

Tesla’s Cybertruck, unveiled in 2019, is a testament to the company’s push toward automotive and electric vehicle innovation. It’s promised to be loaded with newer tech and nearly impenetrable because of its ultra-hard 30x cold-rolled stainless steel exterior. In addition to its advanced technology, Cybertruck will include a large shatterproof windshield and ultra-durable rear bed. 

Its expected to be available in three variants, ranging from a single-motor RWD version, all the way up to a tri-motor AWD verison. The estimated EPA range is 250-500 miles with a 0-60 mph time of 2.9 - 6.5 seconds.

Tesla will begin Cybertruck deliveries this year, with volume production being achieved in 2024. 

Semi

The Tesla Semi
The Tesla Semi
Tesla

Originally unveiled in November 2017, Tesla Semi is designed to innovate the semi-truck market. Designed to have more than three times the power of a standard diesel truck, a range of up to 500 miles, and a 1,000 horsepower motor the size of a football, Tesla Semi provides true innovation for long-haul transportation.

The first bunch of Semis was delivered to PepsiCo in late 2022 at a delivery event, where its nickname, “The Beats,” was presented.

“[It has] three times the power than any diesel truck on the road right now,” Dan Priestley, Senior Manager of Tesla’s Semi Engineering, said at the time. “So you’ve got all the power you need to get the job done, but the other reason that it’s a beast is because it is efficient. You can go 500 miles on a single charge on one of these things. It’s the mix of those two—this is a game-changer. What’s awesome is both of those are enabled by our 1000-volt powertrain. This is the first vehicle we are with that.” 

First-Gen Roadster

Tesla’s original Roadster began production in 2008. It was a big milestone for the company because it was their first production vehicle. Prior to the Roadster, Tesla only produced a prototype of the vehicle to generate interest and secure funding. 

The Roadster was based on the Lotus Elise, a lightweight, two-seat sports car. Tesla worked with Lotus to develop the Roadster in order to tap into Lotus’ expertise in vehicle manufacturing. The final product borrowed the Elise’s chassis, but the vehicle's custom drivetrain, battery system, and body were entirely unique.

When it was originally released, it had a base price of $98,950 with later versions of the vehicle reaching a sticker price of $120,000. 

Next-Gen Roadster

The New Tesla Roadster
The New Tesla Roadster
Tesla

Tesla’s Next-Gen Roadster will be a marvel of automotive engineering, shattering barriers and pushing the laws of physics. Information about the Next-Gen Roadster has been sparse since its unveiling in 2017 alongside Semi, but CEO Elon Musk has stated the production of the Next-Gen Roadster will begin in 2024. 

Next-Gen Roadster Specs

According to Tesla’s website, the Roadster will be capable of going 0-60 mph in 1.9 seconds, a 620-mile range, and a top speed of more than 250 mph. Similar to the Cybertruck, it’ll be loaded with Tesla’s state-of-the-art safety features, all-wheel drive, and designed for unrivaled performance and aero efficiency.

Furthermore, in classic Tesla and Elon Musk fashion, the Roadster will have an optional SpaceX Package, which would increase the vehicle’s performance even further. Musk confirmed that with this package, 0-60 mph could be achieved in mere 1.1 seconds.

Reduce Tesla Phantom Drain: Which Features Use Power While Parked

By Karan Singh
Not a Tesla App

One of the most common questions new Tesla owners have is about "phantom drain" – the energy your car consumes while it's parked. While Teslas are incredibly efficient, there is still some drain due to certain features being enabled or due to the vehicle’s battery management system (BMS).

While you can’t turn off the BMS, which maintains your battery at an ideal temperature, you can ensure that no features are enabled that consume energy while your vehicle is parked. This is especially important when leaving your vehicle for long periods, such as going on vacation.

We’ll go through all Tesla features that consume energy even when the vehicle is turned off.

As a note, almost all of the features below will automatically disable themselves if your vehicle's battery drops to 20%, thereby preventing them from completely draining your battery. However, this isn’t always enough if you’re leaving your vehicle for several days since the BMS will remain on to protect your battery.

Sentry Mode

Sentry Mode is one of the biggest energy drainers, but it’s also one of the most useful features. It helps protect your vehicle with a 360-degree video security system that surrounds your vehicle, providing alerts and recordings in the event of an incident.

Sentry Mode continuously processes video from up to six of your vehicle’s cameras. This requires leaving the Autopilot computer and cameras active, resulting in high energy usage. Sentry mode consumes roughly one to two miles worth of battery per hour, but this number varies depending on your specific model. The average person drives about 32 miles per day (12k miles per year), which means that Sentry Mode costs about 50% of the cost of driving the vehicle.

There’s no doubt that Sentry Mode is useful, but it should be used selectively in areas that may be more prone to break-ins.

You can turn Sentry Mode on or off by going to Controls > Safety > Sentry Mode on your vehicle touchscreen. You can enable Sentry Mode for single instances by going to Controls > Sentry Mode, which will turn it on for that one parking session only. You can also exclude locations where Sentry Mode won’t come on, such as Home, Work or locations listed in your favorites.

Sentry Mode can also be enabled or disabled from the Tesla App from Security & Drivers > Sentry Mode.

Cabin Overheat Protection

Not a Tesla App

Cabin Overheat Protection helps to keep the interior of your car from reaching dangerously high temperatures on hot days. This does not keep humans or pets safe, but it does help to keep temperature-sensitive items at a more reasonable temperature if you leave them inside, such as electronics.

You can turn it on and adjust the settings from Controls > Safety > Cabin Overheat Protection. The feature offers three options: Off, No A/C, and On.

The No A/C option will use the fan to circulate air once the cabin temperature exceeds 105ºF without using the A/C. This option helps conserve energy while also usually preventing the vehicle from getting too hot. However, if the vehicle is parked in the sun on an extremely hot day, it can still reach temperatures of 130ºF or higher.

In most cases, it does help keep the steering wheel and seats cooler and it’s a good balance between keeping the option off completely or having it use high amounts of energy.

If you select the AC option, you can set the activation temperature to 90°F (32 °C), 95°F (35°C), or 100°F (40°C). The chosen temperature and the temperature outside will play a significant role in how much energy this feature actually uses, especially on a hot summer day.

Cabin Overheat Protection has no bearing on the safety or functionality of your vehicle and only operates for up to 12 hours after leaving the vehicle. We generally don’t recommend enabling this feature unless you have a specific reason to do so.

You can also enable or disable Cabin Overheat Protection, as well as adjust the operating temperature from the Tesla app by selecting Climate and then swiping up on the temperature module at the bottom of the screen.

Keep Accessory Power On

Not a Tesla App

Now available on all vehicles as of Tesla’s 2025 Spring Update, Keep Accessory Power will keep your 12V power sockets and USB ports active without needing to use Camp Mode. This also keeps the wireless phoen chargers enabled, letting you charge or power a device while you’re not in the vehicle. However, this option does use a good amount of energy, even if there are no devices plugged in.

The Model Y and Model X include a 12V socket in the rear left pillar of the vehicle, alongside a 12V socket in the front of the vehicle. The Model 3 and Model S only have a 12V socket in the front of the vehicle. For the Cybertruck, this feature keeps the 120V and 240V in the rear active as well.

You can turn this feature on by going to Controls > Charging > Keep Accessory Power On. This feature is disabled by default and is turned off once the vehicle battery drops to 20% or below. However, it will remain on any time the vehicle has a 20% or higher state of charge, which could cause long-term battery drain issues.

This feature should only be used when you actively need it and then should be turned off. Several people have fixed their battery drain issues in their vehicles after realizing this option was left on.

Similar to Sentry Mode, this feature can use up to one mile per hour of range when enabled, even if there are no devices plugged in. It will consume slightly more energy while charging devices, depending on the device.

Summon Standby

Summon Standby keeps your car in a low-power state, meaning that the vehicle’s Autopilot is asleep, but not turned off. When the vehicle receives a summon request, it’s ready to go almost instantly, instead of the user having to wait for the vehicle to wake up and power on.

Without Summon Standby, it can take 30 seconds to a minute for Summon to be available through the Tesla app.

This feature is only available on vehicles equipped with Enhanced Autopilot or FSD (differences between Basic Autopilot, Enhanced Autopilot, and FSD) and can be enabled or disabled from Controls > Autopilot > Summon Standby

This feature doesn’t draw as much power as Sentry Mode, but it’s similar. It can consume about 0.5 to 1 mile of range per hour. We don’t recommend keeping this option on unless you Summon your vehicle often.

Note: If you keep Sentry Mode on, Summon is also available immediately, as the Autopilot computer is already powered on and the vehicle doesn’t go to sleep.

Third-Party Services

Third-party apps that track your car’s data through the Tesla API can wake up your vehicle or prevent it from sleeping properly. While Tesla’s API has been improved to prevent some of these issues, the newest features aren’t available for the legacy Model S and Model X.

These services will only cause a noticeable difference in battery drain if they’re preventing your vehicle from falling asleep. You can tell if your vehicle is asleep by opening the Tesla and seeing the status of your vehicle in the top left corner.

Scheduled Preconditioning

enjustice3192/Reddit (Edited by NATA)

You can schedule times for your vehicle to automatically precondition the cabin, letting you get into a prefectly warmed or cooled vehicle every morning and evening. While this feature is great if you have a consistent schedule, it can also be the cause of some additional battery drain.

Preconditioning your cabin, either through the scheduled process or manually as a one-time action through the Tesla app, also warms up the battery, which can help improve regenerative braking on cold days or speed up Supercharging on trips.

If possible, keep your vehicle plugged in while preconditioning, as it will draw power from the wall unit instead of the vehicle battery, preventing the vehicle’s range from being lowered. Even a 120v plug can help in these situations.

You can check or adjust your vehicle’s scheduled preconditioning times by going to Controls > Schedule in the vehicle or navigating to Schedule in the Tesla app.

Climate - Dog, Camp, and Keep Modes

Not a Tesla App

Tesla also offers several options to keep your climate system running once you’ve exited the vehicle, either to keep it warm or cool while you’re making a stop.

To enable or disable any of these settings, swipe up from the temperature on your vehicle display while the vehicle is in Park, and then touch Dog Mode, Camp Mode, or Keep Climate.

Dog Mode

Dog Mode is designed to keep a comfortable temperature for your pet while active. You can monitor the temperature remotely, as well as see into the Cabin Camera while Dog Mode is active. This mode also displays the current cabin temperature on the center display, helping inform nearby passersby that your pet is safe and comfy.

As a note, Dog Mode disables the window controls inside the vehicle.

Camp Mode

Camp Mode enables you to power electronics through the USB ports (or low-voltage outlets) while maintaining cabin temperature. The touchscreen also remains on, allowing you to listen to music, play games, or watch movies. The doors will also remain unlocked, and Tesla’s walk-away door lock feature will be disabled. This is ideal to use when you’re stepping away from the vehicle with someone still inside it and want the doors to stay unlocked and the alarm to remain off.

Keep Climate

Keep Climate will keep the vehicle’s temperature at the currently selected temperature while you step away. All other features remain on, such as auto door locking. This is a good option if you’re running in quickly to pick up a child at school or daycare and want to keep your vehicle comfortable without having to remember to preheat or precool the vehicle. Keep Climate will stay enabled for up to two hours, or until the battery reaches 20%, so it isn’t a long-term cause of battery drain.

Read our guide on the details on all three features, how they compare and differ and when to use them.

Battery Drain Issues

While Tesla vehicles come with numerous useful features, it’s important to know which ones consume energy even when your vehicle is parked, which could offset any potential gas savings. Use these features selectively when needed, rather than leaving them on 24/7, as they’ll continue to consume power even through the night when you’re unlikely to take advantage of them.

If you’re experiencing issues with battery drain, we recommend going through this list of features and confirming that each one is turned off.

NJ Turnpike to Force Replacement of Tesla Superchargers with Less-Compatible CCS1 Chargers

By Karan Singh
Not a Tesla App

In a move that has both surprised and frustrated Tesla and non-Tesla owners, the New Jersey Turnpike Authority (NJTA) is actively removing Tesla Superchargers from its service plazas, replacing them under an exclusive agreement with Applegreen Electric—the company that operates the plazas.

This transition, which was officially announced by the Tesla Charging account on X, will see all 64 of Tesla’s V3 Supercharger stalls removed from the Turnpike. This has raised some eyebrows, especially as the Applegreen sites, which will only feature CCS1 plugs, won’t be online until later this year.

End of a Decade

Tesla’s presence on the Turnpike dates back to 2014 when the NJTA granted Tesla a pilot license for just eight Supercharger stalls. That then rapidly expanded, and by the end of 2023, Tesla had 64 V3 Supercharger stalls active across the Turnpike, boasting their usual impressive 99.9% uptime, with a 30% lower cost than competitors nearby.

With the increasing adoption of the North American Charging Standard (NACS) by other automakers, Tesla's network is becoming the de facto fast-charging standard for a growing number of non-Tesla EVs, which makes this decision even harder to justify. Not only will Tesla vehicles be unable to charge at these locations, but many new EVs with NACS ports will also be left out.

Applegreen

Applegreen’s chargers are less than ideal. They resemble gas stations for EVs, which is a huge step back from Tesla’s elegant solution. Besides currently only supporting CCS1 and CHAdeMO charging connectors, which leaves out the majority of EVs, they also provide a worse charging experience.

These locations are often more expensive than Tesla Superchargers, but just like Tesla, the price does vary by location. We spot-checked several locations and noticed that prices were roughly about 10% higher per kWh than a similar Tesla charger nearby. Applegreen’s chargers also include screens and a credit card slot, requiring customers to pay for their charging sessions, just as they would for gasoline.

While we don’t have statistics on their uptime, it’s hard to argue that it’d be better than Tesla’s, which has live monitoring and often fixes issues within hours, which was recently demonstrated when it rebuilt a Supercharger less than 48 hours after it was burned down. Many users complain of Applegreen’s chargers, saying they don’t work or are difficult to use. Their app on iOS currently has a 1.9 rating out of 5.

Tesla’s Proposal

The landscape for EV charging on the Turnpike shifted in March 2023, when the NJTA amended its agreements with Applegreen to make it an exclusive offering. Despite Tesla offering what it cites as above-market terms, which included upgrading all Superchargers on the Turnpike to include Magic Docks (NACS + CCS1 chargers) for universal EV compatibility and card readers for better billing for non-Tesla owners. Tesla also offered to co-host, allowing Applegreen chargers and Tesla Superchargers to be located side by side. However, NJTA still declined to let Tesla keep any of its existing Superchargers online.

This is clearly a move for Applegreen to capitalize on its property and generate revenue by installing its own branded chargers. However, with Applegreen’s chargers only having CCS1 cables, calling them “universally” compatible while making Tesla’s seem exclusive to Tesla vehicles is laughable. This is clearly a step in the wrong direction that will hurt all EV owners. If anything, NJTA should be requiring Applegreen to maintain Tesla’s Superchargers on the premises, while also allowing Applegreen to install their own chargers.

NJTA instead announced that Tesla must decommission its Superchargers soon, which will leave EV drivers without viable options while traveling on the 117-mile-long NJ Turnpike. That’s millions of dollars of Tesla charging infrastructure that’s already being used - being removed without a replacement in place for potentially months.

The decision has been met with some widespread criticism over the last few days. The reduced options, reduced convenience, increased costs, and reliability concerns are chief among the concerns of Tesla and other EV drivers. However, the lack of transparency behind the decision, as well as the exclusivity to Applegreen, has led many to accuse the NJTA of corruption and backdoor deals, including Elon.

Tesla’s Proactive Response

Anticipating the worst, however, Tesla’s Supercharging team has been working to ensure charging continuity. Between 2022 and today, Tesla has proactively built 116 replacement Supercharger stalls at eight new locations just off the Turnpike, anticipating this would happen. While this will make it less convenient for EVs reliant on NACS, it won’t leave them stranded without a place to charge. Tesla’s trip planner has already been adjusted to route drivers to these new sites as well.

While Tesla is clearly invested in expanding access to electric vehicle charging - whether for its own direct customers or for other EVs, it seems that some organizations believe the easiest way to meet “green goals” is to find the solution that’s best for their pocketbook.

We’re hoping that these types of exclusivity deals don’t become common as they harm all current EV owners and reduce electric vehicle adoption.

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