Tesla is making progress on the Megacharger network, which will serve as the charging infrastructure for the upcoming Tesla Semi electric truck. Although the Semi is not in mass production yet, a Megacharger was recently spotted in Baker, California.
The Megachargers are distinct from regular Superchargers in several ways. They are physically larger and have different charging cables. Unlike the North American Charging Standard (NACS) plug used in Superchargers, the Megachargers feature a larger square-shaped plug specifically designed for the Tesla Semi. Megachargers also have several times more charging power than Superchargers, which results in faster charging times.
The spotting in Baker has fueled speculation regarding whether Tesla’s Megacharger and the Cybertruck will be compatible. During the Tesla Semi’s first delivery event last December, CEO Elon Musk and Semi engineering executive Dan Priestley mentioned that Tesla had developed a megawatt charger capable of serving both the Semi and the Cybertruck.
The Megacharger spotted in Baker was notable because it appeared to be installed at a charging station more suitable for smaller Teslas (including Cybertrucks) than for Semis. As such, it looks likely that the Megacharger and the Cybertruck will indeed be compatible.
The compatibility of the Cybertruck with the Megacharger network could become a significant selling point for the vehicle. The greatest charging power available to Teslas currently is 350 kW. The Megacharger is expected to provide a charge power of at least 750 kW. As such, the Cybertruck would not only be the most eye-catching Tesla on the market but also the fastest-charging one.
Since the Cybertruck is a consumer vehicle, it’ll likely come with an NACS port. This suggests that certain Megachargers might be equipped with an NACS plug as well. Tesla might also release an adapter for the Cybertruck, allowing it to connect to the Megacharger’s plug.
Stay tuned for updates on this exciting story.
Image source: Woodland, https://shorturl.at/bEV19