Understanding Tesla Model Y Charging Times and Costs at Supercharger Stations

When considering the convenience and cost of charging a Tesla Model Y, it's crucial to understand the nuances of various charging rates and scenarios. Let's break down the process and associated costs to help you plan your journey.

Charging at Different Levels

Tesla Model Y can be charged using different levels of chargers, each with varying efficiency and cost implications.

Level 2 Chargers

Level 2 chargers are common and typically have a faster charging rate than Level 1 chargers. Using a 250kW Level 2 charger, it takes:

About 30 minutes to go from 0 to 80% charge 20 to 25 minutes to go from 80% to 100% A total of 50 to 55 minutes for a full charge

This time increases significantly when using a Level 1 charger, which can take about 70 minutes to go from 0 to 100% charge.

Supercharger Stations

Supercharger stations are designed for faster charging and are typically the preferred choice during road trips.

A typical Supercharger stop on a trip takes about 25 to 35 minutes, which includes the time needed to charge the battery and the convenience of a break. While it varies, a rough estimate is that it takes about an hour to reach 80% charge at a Supercharger station, costing about $0.50 per minute.

Real-World Considerations

In the real world, planning your charging stops involves more than just reaching 100% charge. Here are some considerations:

State of Charge (SOC) and Charging Strategies

Always try to maintain a SOC above 20%, as lithium-based batteries charge most efficiently between 20% and 80%. Just like with gasoline vehicles, you don't typically deplete your battery entirely. Maintaining some charge can help you navigate unexpected situations. Similar to filling up a car with only the necessary amount of fuel, you can stop to charge at higher rates without depleting your range significantly. Public chargers with high power (150kW) can reduce the 20-80 charge time to about 20 minutes, with around 600 miles of range added in the same time.

Cost Analysis

The cost of charging varies based on where you top up your battery:

Charging at home can be equivalent to 150 MPG in terms of cost efficiency. Using high-power public chargers can cost around 50 MPG equivalent. The goal is to charge your vehicle mostly at home, minimizing the need for public charging stops. When public charging is necessary, it remains cost-effective compared to traditional gasoline vehicles.

Conclusion

When planning your journey with a Tesla Model Y, consider the strategic use of charging stations and home charging. While it may take about an hour to charge from 20 to 80%, the overall travel experience and cost can be managed effectively. Understanding these factors can help you plan more efficiently, ensuring you stay on schedule and within budget.