Tesla Supercharger V4: 500 kW of Power, But Why?

Tesla has inaugurated its first charging station in California, equipped with chargers capable of delivering up to 500 kW each. Useful?

“When the sage points at the moon, the fool looks at the finger.” This Chinese proverb summarizes the content of the following article: why is Tesla installing 500 kW chargers when its most capable vehicle to handle this energy is the Cybertruck limited to 325 kW?

Tesla anticipates the future of batteries

For Tesla, the equation is simple: better to prepare today for tomorrow’s network. With the advent of new batteries (800 V architecture or even 1200 V, solid electrolytes, etc.), future generations of electric vehicles will be capable of handling significantly higher powers. The Superchargers V4 are thus a long-term investment, planned for at least the next ten years.

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Energy

• 06/10/2025 10:38

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Furthermore, the economic model of Tesla is quite unique. Its stations are no longer reserved for brand customers. Many manufacturers — Ford, Mercedes, Hyundai, Kia, BYD — are gradually joining the network. However, some competing models already exploit higher powers than Tesla: for example, Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 with 800 V architecture can reach up to 350 kW peak. The Supercharger V4 at 500 kW therefore ensures universal compatibility and a comfortable margin for all.

Better distributed power

Behind these spectacular figures lies also an energy management logic. A charger capable of delivering 500 kW does not limit itself to a single car: it can intelligently distribute its power among several vehicles. Thus, two Tesla vehicles connected simultaneously can each benefit from 200 to 250 kW without their charging speed decreasing. The result: less waiting time and an overall improved throughput for the station.

Finally, instead of updating its chargers every five years, Tesla chooses to oversize its equipment. The V4 at 500 kW are designed to last and remain competitive face to the infrastructural investments of competitors. This choice reduces renewal costs and ensures the longevity of a network that has become a strategic and profitable asset for Tesla. The American manufacturer is also increasingly regarded as an energy provider in the United States, rather than just an automaker. And that’s where its talent and secret of success lie.

Lastly, it’s hard not to see this as a marketing gesture. Announcing “Supercharger 500 kW” catches the eye and reinforces Tesla’s image as a technological leader, even if no current Tesla actually benefits from it. For customers, it guarantees their next car will be ready for the future. Well played!

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