Tesla develops Solar Supercharger: 30 minutes for 240 km of autonomy

The American electric vehicle specialist has unveiled a new fast charger that was first developed for the Model S and allows it to travel 240 km in about thirty minutes.

240 km of autonomy in 30 minutes

Tesla Motors has just developed a solar-powered charger for its Model S. Capable of generating 440 volts and 100 kW of power in about thirty minutes, this supercharger like the one presented by Ilon Munsk can travel 240 km. If the technology currently provides 100kW of power for that recharge time, Tesla intends to increase that power to 120kW soon. The system, originally developed for the Model S and its 85 kWh unit, will certainly be extended to other models of the brand, and then to competing vehicles. With the ability to connect directly to the battery, the Tesla Supercharger also avoids the flow of current through electronic equipment.

Solar powered system

Anticipating the problem of excessive electricity consumption that could power such a fast charging system, as well as the entire network of stations in which the device is installed, Tesla has partnered with SolarCity to turn to solar power. Indeed, photovoltaic panels will be installed above charging stations to provide the required energy. Tesla intends to develop technology to channel the excess power supplied by this assembly into the surrounding electrical grid. The firm will open the first six charging points in California where the Model S can be charged for free! The experience will soon be extended to Europe and the Asian continent.