As electric vehicle adoption accelerates in New Zealand, Tesla owners are leading the way in this transportation transformation. With over 1,200 public EV chargers available nationwide as of April 2024 (EECA), planning your next road trip has never been more straightforward. Whether you're cruising in a Model 3 or exploring in a Model Y, understanding New Zealand's public charging landscape is key to a hassle-free journey.
From ultra-fast rapid chargers along major state highways to convenient destination chargers at popular tourist spots, we've got you covered on everything you need to keep your Tesla powered up and ready for adventure. Whether you're a new Tesla owner or a seasoned EV enthusiast, this article provides the latest information to enhance your electric driving experience amidst New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
To access the NZTA map of EV Chargers in New Zealand go to: https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/ev-chargers
Types of Charging: AC and DC
There are two main types of public electric vehicle chargers available on New Zealand roads: AC and DC chargers. AC stands for alternating current, while DC stands for direct current.
All electric vehicles have built-in converters that convert AC power to DC power. When you plug your car into an AC charger, the car automatically converts the power to DC (via the inverter), which is then stored safely in the battery. As a result, AC chargers take longer to charge an EV than DC chargers. AC chargers are ideal for regular use and are often free of charge. It is recommended to use AC chargers while doing everyday tasks, such as grocery shopping.
DC chargers, on the other hand, are designed to convert energy from AC to DC before the power reaches the car, making them faster and more efficient. The power is fed directly into the battery, requiring less work from the EV. DC chargers are ideal for quickly topping up your EV battery and getting back on the road. However, it is not recommended to use public fast chargers too frequently, as they can wear down the battery over time.
Charging Times
The charging time for your Tesla will depend on the type of charger and how much energy you need to add to your battery. A 22kW charger would typically take around 5 hours to charge from 10% to 80%, while a 100kW charger would take approximately 35 minutes from 10% to 80%. Other factors that affect your charging speed are the ambient temperature, in-vehicle energy loads, battery condition and the car temperature.
It's important to note that the Tesla Model Y and Model 3 have a maximum charge potential of 11 kW with AC charging and 210 kW with DC charging.
What Do You Need to Charge Your Car When on the Road?
To charge your Tesla while on the road, you need to have access to a charging station that offers compatible charging options for your EV's battery. One of the key components of this process is having the right charging connector.
Here's what you need to know about the type of connector required for charging your Tesla Model Y or Model 3:
AC Charging Connectors: To charge your Tesla Model Y or Model 3 with alternating current (AC) power, you need an EV charging cable with a Type 2 connector (also known as Mennekes) on the charging station side, and a Type 2 connector on the car side. Our EV charging cables by LAPP have the option of either 11kW and 22kW charging cables with both Type 2 connectors on each end.
(Courtesy of NZTA)
DC Charging Connectors: When it comes to charging your Tesla Model Y or Model 3 with direct current (DC) power, you need a Combined Charging System (CCS) connector on the charging station side, and a CCS connector on the car side. Tesla Model Y and Model 3 both support DC fast charging with a maximum charge rate of 210 kW. To take advantage of this charging speed, you will need to use a CCS connector.
(Courtesy of NZTA)
It's important to note that not all charging stations offer both AC and DC charging options, so it's essential to plan your route and charging stops in advance to ensure you have access to the type of charging connector you need.
In addition to the right charging connector, you may also need an access card or smartphone app to initiate the charging process and pay for the electricity you use. Some charging stations also require a payment method, such as a credit card, to pay for the electricity you use.
With this comprehensive guide, charging your Tesla in public doesn't have to be a hassle. Get ready to hit the road and enjoy the ride, knowing you have all the information you need to charge your car on the go.