Electric Car Charging Stations - Includes best electric car charging stations 2020 Tesla Model 3.

With electric vehicles (EVs) gaining popularity, finding the right charging station has become an essential part of the ownership experience. As a Tesla Model 3 (2020) owner, you’ll want to know which charging stations offer the fastest, most convenient, and safest charging for your car. In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of chargers available, the best home charging solutions, and public charging networks that cater to Tesla drivers.

Types of Electric Car Charging Stations

When it comes to charging your 2020 Tesla Model 3, you have several options. Understanding the types of chargers can help you choose the best one for your needs.

1. Level 1 Chargers

• Power Output: 120V
• Charging Speed: Approximately 3-5 miles of range per hour
• Best For: Occasional or emergency charging at home using a standard wall outlet.

Level 1 chargers are the slowest option but are great for overnight charging if you drive limited distances daily. They can add around 30-40 miles of range overnight but may not be ideal for long trips or daily use for frequent drivers.

2. Level 2 Chargers

• Power Output: 240V
• Charging Speed: 25-30 miles of range per hour
• Best For: Home installation or public charging stations.

Level 2 chargers are much faster and are commonly installed in homes or found in public charging stations. They can fully charge your Model 3 in 7-9 hours, making them a practical solution for overnight charging or longer road trips.

Popular Level 2 Home Chargers for Tesla Model 3:

• Tesla Wall Connector: Specifically designed for Tesla vehicles, this is one of the best options. It costs about $500 and charges at a rate of up to 44 miles of range per hour.
• JuiceBox 40: A more versatile charger, compatible with all EVs, priced around $600 with a smart charging app and a charging rate of 25-30 miles per hour.

3. DC Fast Chargers (Level 3)

• Power Output: 400V – 900V
• Charging Speed: 200+ miles of range per hour
• Best For: Road trips and rapid charging in public locations.

These are the fastest charging options available, typically found in public areas like shopping centers, highway rest stops, and large parking lots. Using a DC fast charger, your Tesla Model 3 can charge from 10% to 80% in about 30-40 minutes.

Tesla Supercharger Network: Tesla's proprietary DC fast chargers are strategically placed along highways and in cities. For long road trips, Tesla Superchargers are the best choice, providing up to 170 miles of range in 30 minutes for a cost of about $0.28 per kWh.

Best Home Charging Stations for Tesla Model 3 (2020)

1. Tesla Wall ConnectorCost: $500Installation Cost: $500-$1,200 (depending on your home’s electrical setup)Charging Speed: Up to 44 miles of range per hourFeatures: Wi-Fi connectivity, power-sharing for multiple Teslas, and Tesla app compatibility.
2. Cost: $500
3. Installation Cost: $500-$1,200 (depending on your home’s electrical setup)
4. Charging Speed: Up to 44 miles of range per hour
5. Features: Wi-Fi connectivity, power-sharing for multiple Teslas, and Tesla app compatibility.
6. ChargePoint Home FlexCost: $699Installation Cost: $600-$1,200Charging Speed: Up to 37 miles per hourFeatures: Smart app, Wi-Fi connected, compatible with all EVs.
7. Cost: $699
8. Installation Cost: $600-$1,200
9. Charging Speed: Up to 37 miles per hour
10. Features: Smart app, Wi-Fi connected, compatible with all EVs.
11. JuiceBox 40Cost: $599Charging Speed: 25-30 miles per hourFeatures: Wi-Fi smart charging, energy monitoring, and adjustable power settings.
12. Cost: $599
13. Charging Speed: 25-30 miles per hour
14. Features: Wi-Fi smart charging, energy monitoring, and adjustable power settings.

Public Charging Networks for Tesla Model 3 (2020)

1. Tesla Supercharger Network

Tesla's Supercharger stations are designed for Tesla drivers and are the best for long-distance travel. There are over 25,000 Supercharger locations worldwide, with costs averaging around $0.28 per kWh. The Supercharger network is fully integrated into the Tesla app, which helps locate nearby chargers and shows real-time availability.

2. ChargePoint

ChargePoint operates one of the largest EV charging networks in North America, with over 100,000 charging spots. Their app provides detailed information about charger availability and cost, and many stations are compatible with Tesla vehicles via an adapter. Pricing varies, with some chargers being free and others charging $0.20 to $0.40 per kWh.

3. EVgo

Another popular public charging network, EVgo offers both Level 2 and DC fast chargers. They have partnered with Tesla to offer Tesla connectors at their fast charging locations, making it easier for Tesla drivers to charge. Pricing is around $0.35 to $0.45 per kWh, and the app provides information on nearby locations.

4. Electrify America

Electrify America is quickly expanding its network of DC fast chargers across the U.S. It offers Tesla-compatible charging using the CHAdeMO adapter (sold separately for $450). Electrify America charges based on time spent at the charger, costing around $0.31 per minute.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Charging Station

1. Location: Consider the availability of charging stations near your home or work.
2. Charging Speed: Faster chargers cost more, but can save you time, especially on road trips.
3. Cost: Some charging networks charge per kWh, while others charge by time spent charging.
4. Compatibility: If you're using a public charging station, ensure it’s compatible with your Tesla Model 3. Tesla's proprietary plug is unique, but adapters are available for most other networks.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to charge a Tesla Model 3 at home?With a Tesla Wall Connector (Level 2 charger), you can expect to fully charge your Model 3 in about 8-10 hours.

2. Can I use non-Tesla chargers for my Tesla Model 3?Yes, with an adapter. Most non-Tesla public chargers, like ChargePoint or Electrify America, require a CHAdeMO or J1772 adapter.

3. How much does it cost to charge a Tesla Model 3 at home?On average, it costs $10-$12 to fully charge a Model 3 at home, based on an electricity rate of $0.13 per kWh.

4. Are Tesla Superchargers free to use?No, Tesla Superchargers cost around $0.28 per kWh, though prices may vary by location.

5. Can I install a Tesla Wall Connector myself?It's recommended to have a professional electrician install a Tesla Wall Connector due to the high voltage requirements.

Choosing the right charging station is crucial for maximizing the convenience of owning a Tesla Model 3. Whether you're charging at home or on the go, understanding your options will ensure you're never caught with a low battery.