Tesla will open some of its fast chargers, which had been exclusive to its customers, to all electric vehicles by the end of next year, the Biden administration said Wednesday as it announced a broad effort to improve charging and encourage more people to buy. batteries. -motor vehicles.
Tesla’s fast charger network has been a key element in the company’s success by giving drivers the confidence that they will be able to charge their cars for longer trips. The company’s network also has a reputation for being faster and more reliable than networks available to owners of electric vehicles operated by other companies. Those chargers require drivers to download specialized apps and are often difficult to use or out of order.
He the Biden administrationn said that 7,500 Tesla chargers will be available for other vehicles by the end of 2024. However, some of them are slower chargers in hotels, restaurants and other destinations that are already available to owners of other car brands if they purchase an adapter.
By opening up its network, Tesla will also be eligible for part of the $5 billion Congress authorized as part of a bipartisan infrastructure bill passed in 2021. The money is intended to help create charging infrastructure nationwide. The administration announced the rules for the program on Wednesday, including requirements that the equipment be made in the United States and that the chargers work without specialized apps.
Companies offering charging must also ensure the network is 97 percent reliable, the administration said in a fact sheet.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.