How long does it take to charge a Tesla?

Jun 26, 2023

(iSeeCars)

Charging times by Tesla model and charger type

by: iSeeCars

Posted: Nov 20, 2022 / 10:01 AM EST

Updated: Nov 20, 2022 / 11:29 AM EST

(iSeeCars) — Rising gas prices and federal tax credits for consumers of electric vehicles (EVs) have made Tesla—which accounts for nearly 70% of EVs—a significant player in the auto industry for over a decade.

Given their popularity and increasing accessibility, many consumers are curious about the charging options available for current models. Below, we explain what you need to know about how long it takes to charge each one of Tesla's electric cars, while also noting their battery range, charging prices, and other variables involved in Tesla charge times.

How you charge your Tesla and the charging time involved comes down to where you charge your car battery and what Tesla model you’re driving. According to the Department of Energy, home charging represents 81% of EV charging, with an additional 14% at work, and 5% at commercial charging stations.

The chart above assumes your vehicle is starting at zero percent charge, however, how long your EV takes to charge will vary depending on four key factors in addition to the type of charger being used. The first, and most obvious, is how much your vehicle is already charged. The second is your vehicle's charge rate and the source's charging rate and power output. The last is temperature. Extreme cold or hot weather can cause your vehicle to charge slower and consume its charge more quickly. Experts recommend against charging your EV beyond 80% because high voltages can expedite battery degradation. A SuperCharging station will get standard Tesla batteries to 80% in around 15 minutes.

Although you can expect to charge an average long-range Tesla vehicle for between $9.62 and $18.30, this number can change based on a wide array of factors, including charge capacity, miles driven, electricity rates, and charging method. Given that the average American drives 1,200 miles per month, and the average electricity cost in the US is $0.144 per kWh, here are the estimated costs to fully charge various Tesla cars.

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Bottom Line:

The amount of time it takes to charge a Tesla largely depends on the model and charging source. If you are in the market for a Tesla, be sure to compare charging options, rates, and costs by model, and region. Wall Connectors are useful for a speedy charge, but can be expensive to purchase and install. Mobile connectors offer a much cheaper alternative, but take considerably longer to charge. This makes them ideal for Tesla owners who do not drive more than 40 miles a day. If you’re driving long-range and crossing state lines, try to find a Tesla SuperCharging Station or a third-party charging station on your route.

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