Tesla Motors to dramatically expand network of Superchargers

May 30 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Dana Hull San Jose Mercury News

 

Tesla Motors (TSLA) CEO Elon Musk announced that the electric-car company is expanding its network of "Supercharging" stations across the country, so that Model S owners can drive from Los Angeles to New York just using Tesla's network of fast charging stations.

More details will be provided Thursday, but Musk let the cat out of the bag during an on-stage interview at the influential All Things D tech conference Wednesday.

"There's going to be a dramatic acceleration of the Supercharging network,"

said Musk. "By the end of next month, we'll triple the Supercharger coverage area."

Six Supercharging locations are already up and running in California: at Gilroy, Harris Ranch, Tejon Ranch, Barstow, Folsom and Los Angeles. Most are installed at highway rest stops, with the idea that drivers can top-off the charge on their battery while they grab a bite to eat and use the restroom.

Harris Ranch, located halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco near Interstate 5, has six superchargers and is one of the busiest locations.

"We usually have for or five cars charging all at once on the weekends," said Elias Vasquez, assistant manager of the gas (and charging) stations at Harris Ranch. "They park and charge and eat lunch.

We get some regulars."

Tesla's Model S has the longest range of any electrical vehicle on the market and provides the electricity to Model S owners for free.

"When people buy a car they are also buying a sense of freedom," said Musk.

Contact Dana Hull at 408-920-2706. Follow her at Twitter.com/danahull.

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