Tesla has officially launched its next-generation fast-charging stations, which will allow it to outpace its competitors in electric vehicle charging speeds. The long-awaited, first fully equipped V4 Supercharger station, with a capacity of 500 kW, has begun operating in California. This installation marks the first concrete step in the company’s nearly three-year V4 infrastructure transition.
V4 Supercharger stations launched
Tesla’s Supercharger network is considered the world’s most successful for its reliability and widespread availability. However, due to its V3 Superchargers being limited to 250 kW, it had fallen behind other manufacturers’ stations, which already exceed 350 kW. The new V4 infrastructure changes this.
While the company previously installed V4 charging units on-site, their speed was limited to 250 kW because they were connected to older V3 cabinets. Thanks to this full installation with the new V4 power cabinets, the Cybertruck and vehicles with 800V architecture can utilize the full 500 kW potential.
In addition to providing 500 kW for passenger vehicles, the V4 Supercharger is also capable of providing up to 1.2 megawatts of charging power for the Tesla Semi. The V4 infrastructure also supports various vehicle architectures, from 400V to 1,000V.
Tesla shared a video showing the Cybertruck charging from 0% to 80% in approximately 35 minutes during a test. Currently, only the Cybertruck benefits from the full 500 kW capacity. While Cybertruck owners can expect approximately 30% faster charging, the speed limit for 400V-equipped Model 3, S, X, and Y vehicles remains at 250 kW.
However, even this speed is enough to provide approximately 200 miles of range with just 15 minutes of charging. The company plans to expand its V4 Supercharger stations to non-Tesla electric vehicles soon. The new, longer cable design makes it particularly accessible for vehicles with different charging port locations.
