Tesla launches home charger open to third-party EVs
Tesla has launched a new version of its Wall Connector that allows charging any electric car at home, not just Tesla EVs. The (re) issue looks like another step in opening up the network to non-Tesla drivers.
Tesla launched such a wall box last year, using the US J1772 standard, despite some claiming it was inferior to Tesla’s proprietary system. It also did not stay available for long.
The new version of the Wall Connector unearthed by electrek today appears to apply the same technology. Writes Tesla: “Our J1772 Wall Connector is a convenient charging solution for Tesla and non-Tesla electric vehicles alike, and is ideal for houses, apartments, hospitality properties and workplaces.”
Performance is given at up to 44 miles of range added per hour.
The company continues with a note on commercial charging, which brings us to the question of new markets, as mentioned above. Tesla opened up paid charging at some Destination Chargers only this August. Also, this summer, Superchargers across Europe were opened to any EV driver, a rolling development that is likely to continue.
In any case, Tesla vehicles can also use the station, but in the case of the new Wall Connector, they will need to use an adapter. Of course, Tesla drivers might as well use the original Wall Connector, equipped with the Tesla proprietary plug, which is cheaper at $400.
At Superchargers, Tesla drivers also charge at preferential rates. At the same time, the company has increased tariffs in Europe repeatedly in recent weeks, claiming the energy prices. The cost may be mitigated since the company appears to introduce dynamic pricing at select Supercharger hubs on the continent, e.g. billing less for off-peak charging.
As for drivers wanting to use other high-power charging networks, Tesla released a CCS adapter which also became available in the US in September, as reported. Prices start at $250, but the adapter won’t fit all Tesla vehicles.
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