“Tesla is currently introducing its V4 Superchargers, but to what extent do they outperform the V3 Superchargers?”
Important keysÂ
- Tesla’s V4 Supercharger introduces accelerated charging times, boasting a maximum power output of 250 kW, with the prospect of reaching 350 kW in the future, enhancing the charging experience for electric vehicle (EV) users.
- Additionally, the V4 Supercharger incorporates a lengthier charging cable and a contactless payment terminal, enhancing the accessibility of the Supercharging network for both Tesla and non-Tesla EV drivers.
- Presently, the availability of V4 Superchargers remains limited. However, Tesla has outlined plans to extend this network by establishing new V4 Supercharging stations and retrofitting existing V3 superchargers to offer the advanced V4 charging capabilities.
Throughout its history, Tesla has introduced an array of charging solutions for its customers, spanning from robust public charging networks to in-home charging cables. In March 2023, Tesla unveiled its inaugural V4 Supercharger. However, what features does Tesla’s V4 charger bring to the table, and does it surpass its forerunner, the V3?
What Constitutes Tesla’s V4 Supercharger?
As of 2023, Tesla has expanded its charging options to include four distinct models: V1, V2, V3, and V4. The majority of public Tesla charging stations currently employ V3 technology, constituting the primary backbone of Tesla’s supercharger network. V1 and V2 chargers, known for their lower power output, are typically used for at-home or destination charging, while V3 and V4 are designated as Superchargers, exclusively available at public charging stations.
In March 2023, the inaugural V4 Supercharger made its debut in Harderwjik, a city in the Netherlands. The first US-based V4 Supercharger station emerged in Oregon in October 2023, with the UK receiving its flagship V4 Supercharger station a few weeks earlier.
At the time of this writing, the latest iteration of the Tesla Supercharger, the V4, delivers charging speeds of up to 250 kW. However, there is a possibility that V4 Superchargers may ultimately reach an astounding 650 kW, as indicated by specifications observed on a Dutch V4 charger.
Presently, V4 chargers offer the same maximum power output as V3 chargers (250 kW), but this is projected to change in the future. Tesla’s V4 chargers are on track to achieve a maximum output of 350 kW, a development that promises significant improvements in charging times. According to a posted document revealing the specifications of a Dutch V4 charger, the V4’s amperage is 615A, in contrast to the V3’s amperage of 425A. Consequently, V4 Superchargers are expected to deliver a more robust electric current during the charging process.
Sticker on the back of the new @Tesla V4 supercharger in The Netherlands #TeslaEurope @tesla_europe pic.twitter.com/5BsGvn41Iq
— Esther Rebers (@EstherRebers) March 15, 2023
In conjunction with the specified voltage of 1,000V, a 615A charger theoretically has the capacity to produce a power output of 650 kW. However, it’s important to note that while the Supercharger itself can potentially produce this level of power, the output at the charger connector is likely limited to 350 kW.
Quicker charging times stand out as a paramount demand within the electric vehicle (EV) market, and the V4 Supercharger holds promise in addressing this pressing issue.
Distinguishing Between a V4 Supercharger and a V3 Supercharger
The primary noticeable distinction when examining a V4 Supercharger, in contrast to the V3 model, is its revamped design. V4 Supercharging stations feature a heightened profile and are equipped with an extended charging cable, measuring a total of three meters. Their exterior aesthetic adopts a striking black and white color scheme, complemented by the incorporation of a contactless payment terminal. This terminal enables expedited transactions using contactless payment methods, such as contactless cards, smartphones, or smartwatches.
The introduction of this lengthened charging cable serves a significant purpose: to facilitate charging for other electric vehicles (EVs) and, notably, the Tesla Cybertruck. Initially, Tesla’s Supercharger stations exclusively catered to Tesla models; however, they have since extended accessibility to select non-Tesla EV brands in specific regions, provided these vehicles are equipped with a Combined Charging System (CCS). It’s worth noting that CCS serves as a standard for high-speed EV charging but is not universally adopted across the entire EV industry.
In specific instances, such as certain Tesla V4 Superchargers in Europe, the need for Magic Dock adapters for non-Tesla use has been eliminated, as these stations are already equipped with CCS ports.
A notable array of manufacturers provides CCS-compatible charging solutions, including:
- BMW
- Audi
- Mercedes
- Kia
- Honda
- Ford
- Volkswagen
- Jaguar
- Lincoln
Naturally, these electric vehicles (EVs) feature varying designs, resulting in charging ports being situated in different locations. This variance poses challenges for certain EV drivers seeking to establish a connection between their non-Tesla models and a Tesla Supercharger. The extended cable of the V4 Supercharger serves to address this issue by accommodating a wide spectrum of EVs beyond the Tesla lineup. Consequently, it broadens the accessibility of the Tesla Supercharging network to an even more extensive range of EV drivers. If you happen to own a non-Tesla EV and aspire to tap into the convenience of Tesla’s Supercharging network, the adoption of V4 charging infrastructure could prove exceptionally advantageous.
Locating a Tesla V4 Supercharger Station
As of the current date, Tesla V4 Superchargers remain relatively scarce, regardless of your geographical location. Presently, there is one operational V4 charging station in the US, situated in Oregon, while another station is under construction in Alabama. While the United States boasts a considerable number of Tesla Supercharging stations (each housing multiple charging docks), predominantly V3-equipped, the widespread adoption of V4 Supercharging stations is expected to take some time. This situation is mirrored in the United Kingdom as well.
Numerous countries have yet to witness the installation of their first V4 Supercharging station. Within Europe, countries such as Austria, France, Germany, and the Netherlands feature a limited number of V4 charging docks, with the UK also anticipating its inaugural V4 station’s arrival in August 2023.
The expansion of V4 charger availability entails the creation of entirely new V4 Supercharging stations, with concurrent modifications to select V3 superchargers to incorporate V4 charging capabilities. These enhancements include increased power output and the integration of contactless payment terminals.
The Potential Impact of V4 Superchargers on the Lives of Countless EV Owners
In the landscape of contemporary public electric vehicle (EV) charging options, Tesla’s Supercharging network stands out as a widely available solution across numerous nations. Irrespective of whether you own a Tesla vehicle or a non-Tesla EV, the introduction of V4 Supercharging stations offers advantages for all. The extended charging cable, reduced charging durations, and the incorporation of contactless payment options collectively contribute to enhancing the overall convenience of your daily EV usage.