Owning a 2024 Tesla Model 3 in Australia opens up a world of electric exploration, but keeping your battery charged is key. This guide equips you with all the knowledge you need to navigate the different charging options available, from home charging and public stations to Tesla’s Supercharger network. It demystifies charging speeds, explores costs, and offers tips for maximising efficiency and finding charging stations, ensuring your Tesla is always ready to roam.
Tesla Model 3 Charging Options
Like any other modern-day EVs in Australia, the Tesla Model 3 utilises the Type 2 and CCS2 charging standards, for AC and DC charging. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
- AC Charging: Ideal for overnight charging at home or utilising public slow/fast AC chargers. It uses a Type 2 connector, similar to most home EV chargers in Australia.
- DC Charging: Perfect for rapid charging on the go. Tesla’s Superchargers as well as other charging networks utilise a CCS connector specifically designed for this high-powered charging method in Australia.
Tesla Model 3 Charging Speeds
Charging times depend on three key factors:
- Battery Size: The Tesla Model 3 comes in two battery pack options:
62.3 kWh: Standard battery for the Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) variant.
82 kWh: Larger battery equipping the Long Range and Performance variants. - Vehicle Charging Power Limit: Both variants of the Model 3 feature an 11kW AC charging power limit. However, the Standard Range variant boasts a maximum DC power limit of 170kW, while the Long Range variants elevate this limit to an impressive 250 kW for even faster charging capabilities.
- Charging Method: Different methods offer varying charging speeds. Here’s a table to simplify it:
| Charging Method | Tesla Model 3 RWD (62.3 kWh) | Tesla Model 3 Long Range & Performance (82 kWh) |
|---|---|---|
| Home Charging (7 .4kW AC Wall Charger) | Full Charge in ~ 9 hours* | Full Charge in ~ 12 hours* |
| Public AC Charging (Slow/Fast) | Varies depending on charger power output. Generally slower than home charging. | Varies depending on charger power output. Generally slower than home charging. |
| Tesla Superchargers (DC) | 80% Charge in ~ 30 minutes* | 80% Charge in ~ 35 minutes* |
*Please note that the above calculations are performed using our EV Range and Time Calculator.
The Cost of Charging Your Tesla Model 3
The cost depends on electricity rates and the charging network you utilise. Here’s a breakdown with estimated costs (calculation is done using our Cost to Charge an Electric Car Calculator.
| Charging Method | Estimated Cost for Full Charge(0% – 100%) |
|---|---|
| Home Charging | $16 – $21 (depending on battery size and electricity rate) |
| Public AC Charging | $35-$52 (varies, generally higher than home charging) |
| Tesla Superchargers | $0.69 per kWh (as of March 2024). Expect costs to range from $37-$43 for Model 3 RWD and $45-$56 for Long Range/Performance models for a full charge. |
Charging Your Tesla Model 3 at Home
Charging your Tesla Model 3 at home offers a range of AC charging options to suit your needs. One of the most cost-effective yet slower choices is the Granny Charger, also known as the Trickle Charger. Simply plug it into any standard 10-amp residential outlet, and it can supply your vehicle with 2.3 kW power. However, bear in mind that charging to full capacity using this method could take nearly 24 hours. Furthermore, there are safety concerns associated with prolonged daily use, which we delve into further in our comprehensive guide to Granny EV chargers.
On the other hand, a more reliable and faster alternative is installing a compatible Smart Home Charger. These chargers can deliver anywhere from 7kW to 22kW of power, depending on your house’s power supply. They boast intelligent features and can be conveniently controlled via a dedicated mobile app. With the ability to charge a Model 3 Standard variant in under 9 hours and Long Range/Performance models in approximately 11 hours, they offer efficiency without compromising safety. Moreover, these chargers leverage off-peak hours for charging, taking advantage of cheaper electricity rates. If you have a decent solar system installed at your home, they can also utilise solar power exclusively to charge your Model 3, providing a truly eco-friendly charging solution.
Charging Your Model 3 at Public Charging Network
Australia boasts a continuously expanding network of public charging stations. Major charging stations include Tesla Superchargers, NRMA, Evie, BP, Ampol, Jolt and others. When it comes to owning a Tesla Model 3, accessing these charging networks provides unparalleled convenience, particularly at Tesla Superchargers. Tesla owners enjoy a unique advantage—they skip subscription fees and only pay for the recharge power, often at a more competitive rate than non-Tesla owners. Conversely, non-Tesla owners typically need to subscribe and may face slightly higher charging rates. Until March 2024, non-Tesla owners also encounter limitations on accessing supercharger networks in Australia.
Utilise apps like Tesla’s app, Chargefox, Plugshare, or Evie Networks to locate charging stations, check real-time availability, and even initiate charging sessions remotely (on some networks). Navigating payment methods across these networks varies, with most requiring transactions via dedicated apps or RFID cards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, owning a 2024 Tesla Model 3 in Australia opens up a world of electric exploration, but keeping your battery charged is paramount. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the various charging options available, whether at home or on the go at public stations, including Tesla’s Supercharger network. By demystifying charging speeds, exploring costs, and offering tips for efficiency, this guide ensures your Tesla is always ready to hit the road.
