Summary
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- Non-Tesla EVs cannot rely on NACS Superchargers for cross-country travel
- Convenience stores and gas stations profit more from the convenience store items than gas
- The Cody’s Gastro Garage restaurant at the Nephi, Utah Supercharger targets Tesla EV customers with themed menu items
- Amenities at Superchargers vary along the I-90/I-80 route, with some new 250 kW chargers available for non-Tesla EVs
Article
The author discusses the profitability of convenience stores/gas stations, such as Quick Trip, and suggests that EV charging stations, particularly Tesla Superchargers, could potentially be more profitable due to the longer charging times and captive audience. However, the author notes that many Superchargers lack basic amenities such as restrooms, trash cans, and cleaning supplies, which could be a missed opportunity for business. The author highlights a Supercharger in Nephi, Utah that successfully capitalized on this concept by housing a restaurant, Cody’s Gastro Garage, and offering unique, Tesla-themed menu items.
The author shares their experiences traveling from northern Wisconsin to southern Utah using Tesla Superchargers and discusses the amenities available at each station along the route. They note that while Tesla has upgraded many Superchargers to V3 and V4 250 kW chargers that can be used by non-Tesla EVs, there are still long stretches with older chargers that are not compatible with non-Tesla vehicles. This limitation means that drivers of non-Tesla EVs may have to rely on CCS chargers, which may have fewer stalls per charger and lower reliability.
The article provides a detailed list of Supercharger locations and nearby amenities along two routes: the I-39/I-94/I-90/I-80 route and the I-39/I-80 route with a detour over Madison, Wisconsin. The author points out specific locations where NACS-compatible non-Tesla EVs can access the newer V3 and V4 chargers and highlights some of the amenities available at each stop. They also mention some Superchargers with unique features, such as waste baskets and windshield washing gear, or proximity to restaurants and hotels.
In conclusion, the author emphasizes the importance of knowing the availability and compatibility of charging stations along cross-country routes, especially for non-Tesla EV drivers. While Tesla has made efforts to upgrade and expand its Supercharger network, there are still areas with outdated chargers that limit accessibility for non-Tesla vehicles. By highlighting their personal experiences and observations with Superchargers, the author provides valuable insights for EV drivers planning long-distance trips and underscores the need for more widespread, reliable charging infrastructure for all types of EVs.
Additionally, the author mentions the reactivation of Tesla’s referral program and encourages readers to use their referral link when purchasing a new Tesla, which would provide a discount on the purchase price of select models. The article also invites readers to contribute to supporting independent clean tech coverage by donating a few dollars a month. Overall, the author’s detailed analysis of Supercharger amenities and compatibility for non-Tesla EVs offers practical information for EV drivers navigating long-distance travel routes and underscores the growing need for a robust and accessible charging infrastructure to support the transition to electric vehicles.
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