Just two days after Tesla delivered their first European Model S electric cars to a new owner in Norway, Tesla have announced European Superchargers will begin rolling out over the next several weeks.
Tesla’s Supercharger network is rapidly expanding in the US at the moment, with new stations being created all over America in a very swift and well coordinated move to implement a fast electric charge infrastructure. AutoVolt previously posted news about Tesla’s Superchargers expansion plans which you can read here.
The European Tesla Supercharger infrastructure will begin with Supercharger stations being built in Norway, though we’re unsure yet of their locations. Norway is a logical country to begin rolling out their Supercharger network since Norway currently has the most electric vehicles per capita than any other country in the world.
From Tesla’s website about their Superchargers,
“Tesla Superchargers represent the most advanced charging technology in the world, capable of charging Model S 20x faster than most public charging stations. We will soon roll out 120 kW Superchargers, which are 33% faster than our current version and can replenish half a charge in just 20 minutes, for free. It works by delivering DC power directly to the battery using special cables that bypass onboard charging equipment.
Select stations utilize canopies covered with solar panels to offset energy use and provide shade. Over the next few years, we plan to cover more stations in sunny locales with solar canopies as part of our commitment to the environment.
A properly equipped Model S can charge for free at any Supercharger once enabled, unlike gas stations that require you to pay for each fill-up. Supercharging is included in every Model S with an 85 kWh battery, and can be added to any 60 kWh Model S as an option, or at increased cost after delivery. Simply pull up and plug in, take a quick bathroom or food break, and get back on the road.”
Tesla’s Superchargers therefore offer an unprecedented charge time and range over competing EV technologies. However, yet to be determined is whether or not we’ll be seeing any of Tesla’s battery swap technology which allows a Model S have it’s battery swapped for a fully charged one in about 90 seconds.
Source; Tesla on Twitter Photos; From Tesla Motors website
