Unprecedented Wait Times at Tesla Superchargers in Canada during the Cold Snap: How To Prepare For Long Lines & Get Discounts on Charging Fees
The cold snap that descended on Ontario and Quebec recently has caused long line ups at Tesla Superchargers in both provinces. Reports from social media show the wait times were accurately displayed on the map, with a video sent to us by Twitter user showing more than a dozen cars lined up at the Concord Supercharger at Vaughan Mills. The Model 3 owner told us he waited over one hour in the lineup, after which there were at least another 10 cars behind him.
Driving in extreme cold temperatures can be challenging for any vehicle, but electric vehicles have proven to be reliable even when faced with such conditions. Despite this, drivers have experienced an increase in wind noise due to the roads, tires, suspension, and door/window seals shrinking or stiffening up in the cold.
High powered DC EV chargers need to become more ubiquitous so people don't have to wait too long for their car to charge. In some cases, like Brossard supercharger, it is located underground and there's no room to queue up. This makes it difficult for drivers to figure out when it's their turn to charge.
One driver reported driving 200 miles and using 310 battery miles during his trip in Massachusetts despite using a Supercharger. He noted that his car let him know the battery was cold so it was charging slow, and he only got about 75kw max (SC was a 250). Fortunately, there was no wait as there were only two other Teslas at the 8 stall SC.
Overall, electric vehicles are proving themselves capable of handling extreme weather conditions while still providing reliable performance. However, having high powered DC EV chargers available more widely would help reduce wait times and make life easier for those who rely on them.Tesla has been working hard to expand its Supercharger network and make it more accessible. In the past year, they have opened up new locations in Canada, including a few in Ontario and Quebec. They are also offering discounts on their charging fees for those who use them regularly.
The cold snap is expected to last another week or so before temperatures start warming up again. Until then, drivers should be prepared for long line ups at Tesla Superchargers as well as other EV chargers across the country. It's important that we all do our part by being patient with each other while waiting in line and making sure everyone gets a chance to charge their vehicles safely and efficiently during this time of need!
What impact did the cold temperatures have on Tesla vehicles?
The cold temperatures had a greater impact on range than many expected, causing long line ups at Tesla Superchargers in Ontario and Quebec. Wind noise was also increased due to the extreme cold, which required the heat to be set higher to overcome this on the highway. Efficiency was also decreased as expected.
How can I avoid waiting in line at a Tesla Supercharger?
Look for Superchargers located underground with no room to queue up. Make sure to give your car enough time to prepare its battery before charging, so that it can charge at maximum power.
How much range did a Tesla vehicle lose in extreme cold weather?
A Model X Long Range Plus drove 200 miles and used 310 of battery miles in negative and zero degree weather in Massachusetts.
What should I do if my car is not charging fast enough?
Check that your car has been given enough time to prepare its battery before charging, so that it can charge at maximum power. If this does not help, high powered DC EV chargers need to become more ubiquitous or a new battery technology that can charge much faster needs to be developed.
What other measures can I take to protect my Tesla in cold weather?
Make sure to keep your car clean and free of snow and ice. Use a pre-heating system to warm up the battery before driving, as this will help maintain range. Also, make sure to use winter tires for better traction and handling on icy roads.