Tesla Introduces New Supercharger with Contactless Payment for All Electric Cars in the UK
Tesla has recently launched the latest version of its Supercharger in the UK, making it accessible to electric cars from all brands and introducing contactless payment. Known as the V4, this new rapid charger from Tesla comes with a three-meter-long cable that can deliver power at rates of up to 250kW for electric vehicles (EVs) equipped with a CCS (Combined Charging System) connection. The charging process can be initiated either through contactless card payment or via the Tesla smartphone app, with prices set at 50p per kWh.
While other charging companies have already introduced faster chargers, such as Gridserve’s 350kW High Power unit, Tesla claims that its V4 Supercharger is “future-proof” due to over-the-air updates, leaving room for even faster charging rates in the future. This flexibility ensures that Tesla’s charging network remains at the forefront of EV charging technology.
In terms of design, the V4 Supercharger features a more discreet appearance compared to Tesla’s previous-generation V3 charger. The large aperture design, which was a trademark of Tesla’s chargers for three generations, has been replaced by a solid box. Additionally, a digital screen has been incorporated into the V4 Supercharger, allowing for card payment and displaying a digital receipt that can be downloaded through a scannable QR code.
Currently, the fastest-charging EVs available in the UK can reach a maximum charging rate of 350kW. However, with the anticipated introduction of 800V charging hardware, EV owners can expect significantly shorter charging times in the near future.
The first V4 Superchargers are currently available at Tesla’s dealership in Tottenham, north London. However, Tesla plans to roll out these chargers to its charging sites across the UK in the coming months. As one of the most extensive charging networks in the country, Tesla currently operates 1100 chargers at 115 locations, with an average of 10 chargers at each location. This widespread availability ensures that Tesla owners have convenient access to charging facilities wherever they go.
To test the capabilities of the new V4 Supercharger, Autocar conducted a charging speed test using a BMW iX1. The results showed a charging speed of 76kW, while the BMW iX1 claims a maximum charging speed of 130kW. This indicates that the V4 Supercharger is capable of delivering a significant amount of power to EVs, ensuring efficient and rapid charging.
The introduction of contactless payment and compatibility with all electric cars equipped with a CCS port is a significant step forward for Tesla and the EV industry as a whole. By opening up its charging network to other brands, Tesla is promoting interoperability and convenience for all EV owners. Additionally, the inclusion of contactless payment simplifies the charging process, eliminating the need for additional apps or cards.
As the demand for electric vehicles continues to rise, the availability and accessibility of charging infrastructure play a crucial role in encouraging more people to make the switch to electric. Tesla’s decision to expand its Supercharger network and introduce contactless payment demonstrates its commitment to supporting the growth of the EV market in the UK.
In conclusion, Tesla’s new V4 Supercharger represents a significant advancement in EV charging technology. With its ability to accept contactless payments and charge any electric car with a CCS port, Tesla is making EV charging more accessible and convenient for all. As Tesla continues to expand its charging network across the UK, EV owners can look forward to faster and more efficient charging experiences in the near future.