Tesla Supercharger Cost per kWh: Is It Still Cheaper Than Gas?

Tesla changed how we think about driving. One big draw? Saving money on fuel. But with changing electricity prices, is hitting a Tesla Supercharger still more manageable on your wallet than filling up with gas? Let’s dig in.

What You’ll Pay at a Supercharger

When you pull up to a Tesla Supercharger, your cost depends on a few things:

• Where you are (prices vary widely between states)
• How fast you’re charging (sometimes quicker costs more)
• Time of day (busy hours can cost extra)

Right now, you’ll typically pay between 25¢ and 50¢ per kWh in the US, though prices climb higher in some busy areas.

Home vs. Away: The Charging Cost Gap

Nothing beats plugging in at home. The average home electricity rate hovers around 15¢ per kWh – way cheaper than Supercharging. But that’s the point – Superchargers aren’t for everyday use. They’re there for road trips and emergencies when you need juice in a hurry.

The Numbers: Tesla vs. Gas Car

Let’s compare a Tesla Model 3 with a fuel-efficient Toyota Camry:

Tesla Model 3 (Long Range)

• 75 kWh battery
• 358-mile range
• Supercharger cost: $30 (at 40¢/kWh)
• Cost per mile: 8.4¢

Toyota Camry

• 15.8-gallon tank
• 32 mpg combined
• 505-mile range
• Gas cost: $55.30 (at $3.50/gallon)
• Cost per mile: 11¢

Even at Supercharger prices, the Tesla runs about 24% cheaper per mile. And charging at home? You’d pay only 3.1¢ per mile – a whopping 72% less than gas!

Why Prices Bounce Around

Several things affect what you’ll pay:

Local power costs make a huge difference – California charges more than Texas.

Some stations jack up prices during busy times but drop them late at night.

Tesla sometimes offers subscription plans that can cut your charging costs.

And unlike electricity, gas prices swing wildly with global events.

When Gas Might Win

It’s rare, but gas could temporarily edge out Supercharging when:

• Electricity rates climb above 50¢/kWh, AND
• Gas drops below $3/gallon

This perfect storm doesn’t happen often or last long.

Looking Ahead

As EVs become more common, Tesla might adjust pricing. However, improvements in battery tech and renewable energy could keep costs steady or even push them down over time.

Bottom Line

Supercharger rates have crept up, but they still beat gas most of the time. For the most significant savings, charge at home and save Superchargers for road trips.

With unpredictable gas prices and growing charging networks, Tesla’s financial math still works in your favor.

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