Umair Ramzan 
As electric vehicles continue to gain popularity, more and more people are turning to Tesla as their go-to brand for an eco-friendly and high-performing car. One question that many Tesla owners or potential buyers have is whether it is possible to drive a Tesla while it is charging.
The short answer is yes. It is possible to drive a Tesla while it is charging. However, there are a few essential factors to keep in mind.
Driving on Battery Power
When driving a Tesla, the car will automatically use the power stored in its battery to move the wheels and propel you forward. As you drive, the battery will gradually lose charge. If you plug the car in to charge while you’re on the road, the charging process will slow down the rate at which the battery discharges, but it will only add much charge once you reach your destination and park.
Supercharger Stations
Tesla has a network of Supercharger stations specifically designed to charge Tesla vehicles quickly. These stations use high-powered charging equipment to add a significant amount of charge to the battery in a short amount of time. If you’re on a road trip and need to stop to charge your car, you can pull into a Supercharger station and plug in while you take a break.
However, Superchargers are designed for quick charging sessions rather than long-term parking. It is expected that you should be moving on with your trip in a short time. Suppose you want to charge your car for a more extended period. In that case, consider finding a different charging option, such as a Level 2 charger or a regular household outlet, as that will be more cost-effective and respectful to other Tesla owners waiting for a charging spot.
Regular Charging
If you’re not on a road trip and are just charging your Tesla at home or a Level 2 charger, driving the car while it is charging is OK. The vehicle will continue to charge slower while you’re on the road, and you can always plug it back in when you return home.
In conclusion, it is possible to drive a Tesla while it is charging, but there are a few things to keep in mind depending on the type of charging. Always prioritize using Superchargers for quick charging needs, and always be mindful of time to move on, as these stations are frequently busy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I drive my Tesla while it’s charging at a Supercharger station?
Superchargers are designed for quick charging sessions, not long-term parking. Therefore, it is expected that you should be moving on with your trip in a short time.
Can I charge my Tesla at a regular household outlet?
It is possible to charge your Tesla at a regular household outlet. However, it will take much longer to charge the car this way, and you should use a Level 2 charger or Supercharger for faster charging.
How long does it take to charge a Tesla at a Supercharger station?
The charging time will vary depending on the battery’s state and the Supercharger’s charging capacity. In general, adding a significant amount of charge to the battery can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
Will drive my Tesla while charging affect the battery’s longevity?
Driving your Tesla while it is charging will not negatively affect the battery’s longevity. However, leaving your Tesla plugged in and charging for long periods is.
Can I charge my Tesla while driving on the highway?
It is not possible to charge a Tesla while driving on the highway. Charging requires the car to be connected to a charging station or outlet, and it is unsafe to attempt to charge the car while driving.
Can I use a public charging station other than a Supercharger to charge my Tesla?
Yes, you can use a public charging station compatible with Tesla vehicles. These are commonly known as Level 2 charging stations and can be found in public places such as parking garages, shopping centers, and hotels. However, these charging stations typically charge slower than Tesla’s Superchargers.
Can I charge my Tesla while on a road trip?
Yes, you can charge your Tesla while on a road trip. Tesla has a network of Supercharger stations that can quickly add a significant change to your battery so that you can continue your journey. You can also use Level 2 or other public charging stations, but remember that these typically have a slower charging rate.
Can I charge my Tesla overnight?
Yes, it is possible to charge your Tesla overnight. Tesla recommends charging the car to 90% to prevent overcharging, which can affect battery longevity. However, monitoring the charging status is good practice to avoid overcharging regularly.
Can I use a solar panel to charge my Tesla?
It is possible to use a solar panel to charge your Tesla. You can connect a solar panel to a charge controller and then to a Tesla charging station or outlet, allowing you to charge the car using solar energy. This can be an excellent option to reduce your carbon footprint and save on electricity costs.
