Starting in 2017, Tesla Model 3 owners won’t be the only ones paying to supercharge their electric vehicle.
All cars ordered after Jan. 1, 2017, come with a gratis 400 kWh of Supercharging credits (about 1,000 miles), to be renewed annually. Folks traveling longer distances, however, will incur incremental charges for quick battery top-ups—a price, Tesla promised, that will cost less than filling up a comparable gas vehicle.
“Just as you would charge your cell phone, we believe the best way to charge your car is either at home or at work, during the hours you’re not using it,” the Tesla team wrote in a blog post. “For travelers, the Supercharge Network has become a powerful, unique benefit of Tesla ownership.
“As we approach the launch of Model 3, this update will enable us to greatly expand our Supercharger Network, providing customers with the best possible user experience and bringing sustainable transport to even more people,” the blog said.
Rates may fluctuate over time and vary regionally based on cost of electricity. More details are expected later this year. These changes do not impact current owners or any new Tesla EVs ordered ahead of the New Year and delivered before April 1.
The luxury car maker debuted its Supercharger network more than four years ago which has expanded to include 4,600 Superchargers across the globe. In about 30 minutes, one charge can replenish three hours of driving at 60 mph.
