Charging the Tesla Model Y: Everything you need to know

The Tesla Model Y is the top-selling electric vehicle in the entire United States. With its quick acceleration, spacious cabin, and Tesla Supercharger network, there are many reasons why the Model Y is at the top of the list of best-selling EVs.

What is the battery size of the Tesla Model Y? What is the range of the Tesla Model Y?

One of the first things you’ll want to consider when purchasing an EV is the vehicle’s battery. Powering the motor, the battery is what ultimately gets you where you need to go. So what are the battery capabilities of the Tesla Model Y?

Range: the range of an EV is the distance it can travel on a single charge. The Tesla Model Y has a few different specs with different ranges

Tesla Model Y (AWD Long Range): 326 miles of range
Tesla Model Y (AWD Performance): 303 miles of range

Voltage: with most EV battery systems ranging from 200 to 800 volts, the Tesla Model Y’s battery comes in the middle range with a 400V architecture

Composition: the Tesla Model Y’s battery is made up of Lithium-ion cells with 576 cells.

How long does the Tesla Model Y take to charge?

Charging time is ultimately dependent upon the type of charger used. There are three types of EV chargers: level 1, level 2, and level 3. Level 1 chargers come with your electric vehicle and plug into the typical 120-volt outlet. Level 2 chargers, on the other hand, plug into 240-volt outlets and require installation. They ultimately add up to 30 miles of range per hour of charge when compared to level 1 chargers. Level 3 chargers (also known as DC fast chargers) can charge the average EV in as little as 30 minutes. However, Level 3 chargers are mainly built for public use - they require an enormous amount of available electricity in the grid, considerable investment in grid infrastructure, and are impractical for home use.

Here are rough charge times for the Tesla Model Y on each of the aforementioned charger types from 20% - 80% charge.

Level 1: 25 hours, 40+ hours to full charge.
Level 2: 4 hours
Level 3: less than 20 minutes

What will it cost to charge my Tesla Model Y?

Much like charging times, the cost to charge the Tesla Model Y will have to consider a few factors. Rates will vary for home charging based on utility and location. Charging at some public stations is free. Although, more often than not, public chargers will come at a cost with a surcharge or premium placed on electric rates.

That being said, on average, the full charge of the Tesla Model Y will cost $9 for a full charge at home. The cost of charging at Supercharger locations varies depending on multiple factors. It all depends on the state, location, and cost of electricity in that area. Charging at peak hours on tIer 4 Superchargers can cost you $0.48 per kWh, but it gets cheaper elsewhere. So it can be generalized that public charging cost around $17-18 for a full charge of Tesla Model Y. Charing your car at home only will save you on average $750 a year.

What are the charging benefits of the Tesla Model Y?

The Tesla Model Y comes with access to the Tesla supercharger network, which has over 10,000 locations across the USA. If you want the comfort of waking up every morning with a full battery of your EV - fill out our survey and get a Level 2 charger for your home.

How many kW can the Tesla Model Y’s onboard charging accept?

The Tesla Model Y’s onboard charger can accept 11 kW, which is a nice Level 2 setup on a 240V outlet with a 48A charger. However, this is a slightly more expensive and complicated installation that requires hardwired installation. You can also install a 40A charger with 9.4kW that can be plugged into the NEMA14-50 outlet, and easily removed or replaced.