Supercharger Membership Tesla: How to Get Lower Rates for Other EVs

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If you’re an electric vehicle (EV) owner looking to tap into Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network without owning a Tesla, you’re in luck. Thanks to Tesla’s new Supercharger membership program and adapters like the A2Z Typhoon Pro or Lectron Vortex, non-Tesla EVs can now access Tesla Superchargers at discounted membership rates.

In this article, I’ll walk you through how to activate the Supercharger membership pricing using the Tesla app and how to charge your other EVs, such as a Rivian R1S, using Tesla’s charging infrastructure. This guide is based on hands-on experience and will help you save money while taking advantage of one of the most reliable & fastest charging networks in the world.

Understanding Tesla’s Supercharger Membership for Non-Tesla EVs

Tesla’s Supercharger network has been a game-changer for Tesla owners, providing fast, reliable charging stations across North America and beyond. But until recently, this network was exclusive to Tesla vehicles. Now, Tesla has introduced a membership program that allows other EV owners to use their Superchargers equipped with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector.

This program opens up a valuable opportunity for owners of vehicles like the Rivian R1S, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and other compatible EVs to access Tesla’s fast chargers at reduced rates by purchasing a Supercharger membership. The key to unlocking these lower rates lies in activating the membership through the Tesla app and using a compatible adapter to connect your vehicle to Tesla’s NACS chargers.

What You Need to Get Started

  • A Tesla Supercharger Membership: This membership grants you access to discounted pricing when charging non-Tesla EVs at Tesla Superchargers.
  • The Tesla App: You’ll need to use the Tesla app to locate chargers, activate charging sessions, and apply your membership benefits.
  • A Compatible Adapter: For non-Tesla EVs with CCS1 or other connector types, an adapter like the A2Z Typhoon Pro or Lectron Vortex NACS adapter is essential to physically connect your vehicle to Tesla’s NACS chargers.
  • A Non-Tesla EV Compatible with NACS Charging: For example, the Rivian R1S used in this guide is fully compatible with the adapter and Tesla’s charging network.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Tesla Supercharger Membership for Other EVs

1. Activate Your Membership in the Tesla App

The first step is to open your Tesla app and navigate to the charging section. In the app, select the option that says “Charge your other EV.” This option is specifically designed for non-Tesla vehicles and allows you to initiate a charging session at a Tesla Supercharger.

At times, the app may initially show a message indicating that no chargers are within range. This can happen due to GPS or network delays. Simply wait a moment, and the nearby Superchargers will populate on the map.

2. Select the Supercharger and Stall

Once you see the available Superchargers, select the station you want to use. The app will prompt you to choose the specific stall or post number where you plan to plug in. This step is crucial because Tesla’s network associates your charging session with a particular stall, ensuring accurate billing and session tracking.

For example, if you’re plugging into stall 3D, scroll through the options until you see 3D and select it.

3. Connect the Adapter and Plug In Your Vehicle

After selecting the stall, you’ll be prompted to start charging. Before doing so, physically connect your adapter—such as the A2Z Typhoon Pro or Lectron Vortex —to the Tesla Supercharger’s NACS connector. Then, plug the adapter into your vehicle’s charging port.

One critical step is to ensure the adapter is locked into position. The adapter must be securely locked; otherwise, the charging session will not initiate. This locking mechanism helps maintain a stable connection and prevents accidental disconnections during charging which can pose a safety issue.

4. Start the Charging Session

Once everything is connected and locked, hit “Start Charging” in the Tesla app. The app will communicate with the Supercharger to initialize the session. You should see a green light on the adapter, indicating that charging has begun.

Charging may take a few moments to ramp up. The app will display your vehicle’s current state of charge and the charging rate in kilowatts (kW). In my experience, charging speeds started around 88 kW and ramped up to about 154 kW, which is excellent for a non-Tesla EV using this setup.

Charging Speeds and Costs: What to Expect

While current Tesla Superchargers can deliver up to 250 kW or more to Tesla vehicles, charging speeds for non-Tesla EVs using adapters may vary. In my test with the Rivian R1S, the charging rate peaked around 154 kW, which is still very fast and competitive compared to most public chargers.  The highest speed I observed at a Tesla supercharger with our Rivian R1S was 220 kW.

One of the most significant benefits of using the Supercharger membership is the reduced charging cost. When you activate the session through the Tesla app with your membership, you receive the discounted pricing automatically. The app clearly shows the cost, confirming that you are benefiting from the membership rates.

Why Use Tesla Supercharger Membership for Your Other EV?

Here are some compelling reasons why getting a Tesla supercharger membership for your non-Tesla EV makes sense:

  • Access to a Massive Charging Network: Tesla’s Supercharger network is one of the most extensive and reliable in North America, with thousands of stations strategically located along highways and urban centers.
  • Fast Charging Speeds: Even with adapters, charging speeds can be impressive, significantly reducing your charging time on long trips.
  • Lower Charging Costs: Membership pricing offers savings over pay-as-you-go rates, making it more economical for frequent charging.
  • Seamless App Integration: The Tesla app makes it easy to find chargers, start sessions, and monitor charging progress from your phone.
  • Better Reliability: Tesla Superchargers lead the industry in availability and reliability.  This ensures that you can charge where and when you need it most.

Additional Tips for Using Tesla Superchargers with Other EVs

Invest in a Quality Adapter

The adapter is the bridge between your vehicle and the Tesla Supercharger. Investing in a high-quality product like the A2Z Typhoon Pro or Lectron Vortex adapter ensures reliable connections, safety, and optimal charging performance. Be sure to follow manufacturer instructions for installation and locking mechanisms.

Check Compatibility

Not all EVs are compatible with Tesla’s NACS connector or adapters. Confirm that your vehicle supports CCS1 or can work with the adapter you plan to use. Always verify the charging standards and connector types before purchasing adapters.  Also, be sure Tesla has turned on supercharger access for the your EV manufacturer.

Stay Updated on Tesla App Features

Tesla frequently updates its app, adding new functionalities and improving user experience. Keep your app updated to benefit from the latest features related to Supercharger membership and charging sessions.

Plan Your Route with Charging in Mind

Use route planning tools like A Better Route Planner (ABRP) or Tesla’s own navigation system to plan your trips efficiently. Knowing where Superchargers are located along your route helps avoid unexpected charging delays.

Conclusion: Unlocking Tesla’s Supercharger Network for All EV Owners

The Tesla supercharger membership program is a fantastic development for the EV community. It democratizes access to Tesla’s fast and reliable charging network, allowing other EV owners to benefit from discounted rates and convenient charging locations. By using the Tesla app to activate your membership and a compatible adapter to connect your vehicle, you can enjoy the advantages of Tesla Superchargers even if you don’t drive a Tesla.

In my experience charging the Rivian R1S using the A2Z Typhoon Pro or Lectron Vortex adapter, the process was straightforward, the charging speeds were impressive, and the cost savings were clear. If you’re a non-Tesla EV owner looking for faster charging options and lower rates, I highly recommend exploring Tesla’s Supercharger membership program.

For more tips, accessories, and updates on EV charging, feel free to explore our additional resources. Happy charging!

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