Tesla has revolutionized the electric vehicle (EV) market with its high-performance, stylish, and eco-friendly cars. The company has also established a vast network of Supercharger stations that allow Tesla owners to charge their vehicles quickly and efficiently. However, one often-asked question by potential EV buyers and current Tesla owners is: how long does it take to fully charge a Tesla? In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on the different charging options and the time it takes to fully charge a Tesla, based on the model and the charging method.
Also read: How to check your teslas eligibility for free supercharging
Charging Options for Tesla
Tesla offers three charging options – the Level 1 charger, the Level 2 charger, and the DC fast charger. Here’s a breakdown of each charging option:
Level 1 Charger
The Level 1 charger is a portable charger that comes with every Tesla. It uses a standard 120-volt household outlet, which means you can charge your car anywhere there’s an electrical outlet. However, the Level 1 charger is not ideal for long-range travel, as it charges at a slower rate of 4 miles per hour. This means it would take approximately 70 hours to fully charge a Tesla Model 3 using a Level 1 charger.
Level 2 Charger
The Level 2 charger is a faster charging option that requires a special charging station. It uses a 240-volt outlet, which is commonly found in homes and public charging stations. The Level 2 charger charges at a rate of 25 miles per hour, which means it would take approximately 12 hours to fully charge a Tesla Model 3 with a Level 2 charger.
DC Fast Charger
The DC fast charger is the fastest charging option available for Tesla owners. It uses direct current (DC) to charge the battery at a rate of up to 300 miles per hour. However, DC fast chargers are not as common as Level 1 and Level 2 chargers, and Tesla owners may need to use third-party charging stations. Using a DC fast charger, it would take approximately 45 minutes to charge a Tesla Model 3 from zero to 80%.
Tesla Supercharger Network
Tesla’s Supercharger network is the fastest charging option available for Tesla owners. These are high-speed, DC chargers that can provide up to 170 miles of range in just 30 minutes. The Supercharger network is available in various locations across North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania, making it an excellent option for long-distance travel.
The table below shows the estimated time it takes to charge different Tesla models fully using different charging methods.
| Tesla Model | Battery Size | Level 1 (120V) | Level 2 (240V) | Supercharger |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model S Long Range | 100 kWh | ~29.84 hours | ~18.65 hours | 75-100 minutes |
| Model Y Long Range | 75 kWh | ~22.38 hours | ~13.95 hours | 60-70 minutes |
| Model 3 Long Range | 75 kWh | ~22.38 hours | ~11.19 hours | 45-50 minutes |
| Model X Long Range | 100 kWh | ~29.84 hours | ~18.65 hours | 75-100 minutes |
Note: Charging times may vary based on several factors such as battery level, temperature, and charging setup.
Time to Fully Charge a Tesla
The time it takes to fully charge a Tesla varies based on the model and the charging method. Here’s a breakdown of the different models and their charging times:
Model S
The Model S is Tesla’s most high-end model, with a range of up to 373 miles on a single charge. Here’s a table outlining the charging times for Model S using the different charging options:
| Charging Option | Time to Fully Charge |
|---|---|
| Level 1 Charger | 3-4 days |
| Level 2 Charger | 11-12 hours |
| DC Fast Charger | 30-40 minutes |
Model X
The Model X is a crossover SUV with a range of up to 371 miles on a single charge. Here’s a table outlining the charging times for Model X using the different charging options:
| Charging Option | Time to Fully Charge |
|---|---|
| Level 1 Charger | 3-4 days |
| Level 2 Charger | 11-12 hours |
| DC Fast Charger | 30-40 minutes |
Model 3
The Model 3 is a more affordable and compact Tesla model with a range of up to 263 miles on a single charge. Here’s a table outlining the charging times for Model 3 using the different charging options:
| Charging Option | Time to Fully Charge |
|---|---|
| Level 1 Charger | 70 hours |
| Level 2 Charger | 12 hours |
| DC Fast Charger | 45 minutes |
Model Y
The Model Y is Tesla’s newest addition to its lineup, with a range of up to 326 miles on a single charge. Here’s a table outlining the charging times for Model Y using the different charging options:
| Charging Option | Time to Fully Charge |
|---|---|
| Level 1 Charger | 3-4 days |
| Level 2 Charger | 12-13 hours |
| DC Fast Charger | 30-40 minutes |
Factors Affecting Charging Times
The charging times outlined in the tables may vary based on several factors, such as battery size, charging level, charging station, and weather conditions. For example, the colder the temperature, the longer it takes to fully charge a Tesla. Battery age and how frequently you drive your Tesla also affect charging times. Therefore, it’s important to keep these factors in mind when estimating the time it takes to fully charge your Tesla.
Conclusion
Charging time is an essential consideration for Tesla owners, especially for those traveling long distances or on road trips. The charging times differ based on the charging method and the model of Tesla you own. Charging at home is the most convenient way to charge your Tesla, but it’s relatively slower compared to public charging stations and Tesla’s Supercharger network, which offers the fastest and most efficient charging times. Consider charging your Tesla fully before trips by locating charging stations or Tesla’s Supercharger network. Ultimately, the charging method you choose depends on your individual needs and preferences, as well as the availability of charging stations, so make sure to plan ahead for your charging needs.
