Tesla has introduced a new feature in its navigation system that displays real-time availability at select third-party charging stations, starting with two new markets. This feature aims to make charging more efficient by helping Tesla drivers avoid potential wait times at non-Tesla chargers.
Tesla owner and X user Matty06 shared photos last week showing the updated navigation screen, which now indicates the status of third-party chargers with phrases like “1 of 2 available.” The feature is currently available at select stations participating in Tesla’s Qualified Third-Party Charger Program, launched in 2022.
@NotATeslaApp the latest map update in europe, give us real-time occupancy on some third party chargingstations pic.twitter.com/fXfioJdRFH
— Daniel Albrecht (@Matty06) November 8, 2024
To qualify, third-party chargers must meet certain criteria, such as providing a compatible charging connector, maintaining a 90 percent or higher average charge success rate, and being used by Tesla vehicles at least every four days.
Although drivers need to manually select a third-party charger to see details like availability and maximum charging speed, the addition is still expected to improve overall convenience for Tesla owners. Tesla’s navigation system automatically routes drivers to available Superchargers, a feature that has not yet been extended to third-party chargers.
Tesla’s broader efforts to expand EV charging access for non-Tesla brands include opening its Superchargers to other EVs in various markets. Earlier this month, Tesla made all Superchargers in Sweden available to non-Tesla vehicles, following similar steps in the Netherlands in 2022. Additionally, Tesla has introduced a free year of Supercharging for new Model Y buyers in Europe who take delivery by the end of 2024.
