A2Z has addressed the locking problem that Eric is referring to in his video. They call it the Typhoon Pro and it is the only one they are selling now as far as I know.
I have the Tesla app on three different phones, iOS and Android. No lagging. I agree about the app fatigue. I have so many charge network apps and on my travels I still manage to find even new ones. It's silly. In the UK they passed a law that they have to take CC payment without an app.
Researching, trusting, acquiring and then learning how to use the right adapter will be a heavy lift for many. This barrier to entry will be significant for non-nerd EV users. And can you even imagine someone with a rental EV jumping through these hoops? If Tesla had been serious about opening their network wouldn’t they have gone for widespread Magic Dock application instead of this BYO adapter path?
@@skyemalcolm I 1000% agree. I have been saying every new installation should be V4 with magic dock. Problem solved. I went to a 40 station one in Mt. Laurel New Jersey and it was an amazing experience. Every brand of car was there charging including Tesla. No issues with parking weird, nothing. Perfect experience.
@@patrick7228 if you make it down to SoCal there’s a 20 stall V4 MD site in the Carson Ca civic center complex of buildings. In 2024 my observation is that no fast charging option out there feels like a good primary source of energy for EVs but it seems many ride share drivers and others living in shared housing where no overnight charging is possible rely on DCFC. For that large Tesla sites would seem to be a more reliable choice in terms of open chargers and working equipment than the current alternatives.
The last time I needed public charging in my Bolt, I used a 62 kW Chargepoint at a gas station off the highway and, to best honest, if I were doing that trip again with supercharger access, I'd probably use the same chargepoint site again, as the experience was hassle-free and charged the car as fast as the car was capable of. I do still anticipate, at some point, paying the $225 for the adapter, but it will be more about the peace of mind of having a backup option in case CCS stations go down, than with the intention of actually using it. But, of course, if a rare situation does arise where charging at Tesla is the most convenient option, I will do it.
On the east coast, the supercharger network vastly outnumbers CCS (though at least CCS is expanding). Unfortunately, Tesla seems to be limiting V4 with Magic dock right now. A new V4 site near my house doesn't support CCS even though it has magic dock. I'm not sure why they are doing that. My CCS EV will probably never get native access to the Tesla network, so that is disappointing.
I have a 2019 Bolt EV and I received an email from Chevrolet saying I need the software update for Tesla supercharger access. Unfortunately my local dealership is still completely clueless about it even after sending them the email I received. Im not sure how this information is supposed to be disseminated to them but hopefully won't take too long.
You don’t really need to worry about multiple CCS cars taking up to many spots because as long as the CCS cars park beside each other, only one spot total is wasted. Even if there are a bunch of CCS cars charge using the ‘wrong’ spot.
Wow, because I’m currently at the Chevy dealership and they’re telling me I do. Maybe I should try using the supercharger before paying for the update. Thank you.
@@esteven38 It depends on the model year. Apparently, some 2019 and 2020 Bolt EVs might need the update. I'd test the Superchargers first, and if they work, you know you don't need the update.
Eric, you need to take a really long trip through a CCS charging desert, like I80 across Wyoming, to appreciate how useful Supercharger access is going to be to CCS EV owners. And it isn't just Wyoming; there are lots of places where CCS EVs that don't have Lucid-like range will be left thinking, "I can't get there from here". Access to Tesla Superchargers will provide a couple things desperately needed: bridging big gaps in the CCS network, and providing backup, for when you get there with 30 miles range left, all both of the ChargePoint chargers don't work, and it's 60 miles to the next CCS charger. Las Cruces to Albuquerque, I'm lookin' at you.
I am aware. Remember, I'm the guy who was driving a CCS EV to the North and South Rims of the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Susanville, Zion, etc. 6 to 7 years ago. That's why I'm also aware of just how few and far between those remaining "deserts" are. Sure, I'm not a big fan of Tesla metering access. Magic Dock proves that they could open the network to every modern CCS1 EV today with the flip of a switch, yet they are still making each and every automaker jump through hoops to gain access to the Superchargers on behalf of their respective customers. That's just wrong, in my opinion. Especially when Tesla is pulling in more and more funding earmarked for public charging providers. However, I do feel that I'm being fair, here, and I tried to stay as positive as possible. I fully acknowledge that access to the Superchargers is a great option and an overall positive development, I just don't know how often CCS EV owners will prioritize them. I feel like people want me to proclaim access to the Superchargers as some sort of a "game changer," but it simply isn't. Outside of maybe half a dozen
You have the old A2Z adapter. The charge will not initiate if the lock is not in the correct position. That is why the charge didn't start the first time at the second location. The new Typhoon Pro adapter has a spring loaded lock that is easier to use.
Eric if you read the press release from general motors they tell you to use the my chevy app to start your charge that sometimes the tesla app does have an issue.
Yes, but my Tesla app was already installed and set up with payment. These issues had more to do with the app itself being slow and unresponsive. The charger activation itself was fine.
We all remember those situations where there’s only 1 or 2 DC chargers in some town or remote area, and both of them - for whatever reason - aren’t able to distribute a charge when you show up. They’re still out there in a lot of the country, but now there are options that aren’t 80-100 miles away, or we now have the confidence that if we show up at the authorized SC, that with 8 or 12 dispensers on the property, we’re virtually guaranteed to get a charge with no issues or unplanned route changes. Once you possess an adapter, having Tesla in your back pocket is quite a confidence booster for the long distance CCS drivers. I see that WV is now accessible to CCS cars with virtually no issues. I couldn’t say that last week.
@@dennislyon5412 While true, we have to remember, this is still just Ford, GM, and Rivian. Lots of others are still waiting. Also, the landscape is very different now. Yes, Supercharger access will always be better than not having access. And yes, there are still a few places that are only easily accessible with Supercharger access, but they are very rare at this point. I might visit one of those charging deserts soon, but it really is one of the few that are left.
I've used both the Chevy app and Tesla and there is just no comparison. The Tesla app is SOOOOO much better than anything GM has put out. It must be your phone, never been laggy on any phone I've ever used.
Yes, I've never had any issues with my Tesla app over six years of use. It's one of the most reliable apps I have used. I'm on iOS if that makes a difference.
Some people have mentioned that it could have been because I was on Wi-Fi. I used to have to shut Wi-Fi down for some apps, but most of them were fixed and updated about 6 to 7 years ago. So it hasn't been an issue for a long time, but maybe Tesla never fixed their app. I'll try it on cellular/wireless next time.
An interesting thing I noticed. V4 Stations have small screens in California but not in other states. I assume it is because California requires a screen at an EV charger to be eligible for their grants.
Yes, that's now a requirement in California, along with point-of-sale payment options such as credit card readers. I believe NEVI has similar requirements. Tesla actually had to abandon several public grants for crucial public charging hubs in California on I-5 and I-15 because the State wouldn't give them an exemption to the regulations governing public charging providers, and Tesla couldn't retrofit their V3 chargers to comply with the State's requirements.
I’m pretty sure the adapter you have is either recalled or at least no longer sold. I wonder if A2Z would replace it for you with the new “pro” version with a redesigned locking mechanism
Cool! I have 2017 Bolt too. This is awesome news. I am in Oregon, and they have pull through SC’s in Bandon where my mom lives, so this will be helpful.
I 2 start in Africa. Maybe it’s the center point? Cool vid. Candid & honest reflection. I agree, it is good to gap fill, but not as a first choice. Gonna stick with EVgo membership for the time being. Thanks for the video. I enjoyed watching
Yup. The one thing I don't do is rose-colored filters. I do try to give the benefit of the doubt, though, so I'm going to confirm that it wasn't just my phone/connection with the Tesla app as well as to try out some V4 Superchargers, which are much better configured for non-Tesla EVs.
53:10 That’s exactly how I feel. I’ve had numerous new, RELIABLE non-Tesla stations open near me in the last 12 months. The only benefit for me in Minnesota is the few Tesla stations they’ve installed WAY off the interstates in small towns. Besides those, I’ll stick with EA, EVGo and Circle K.
I think it’s good to just have the option. It adds to my peace of mind knowing that if the other common chargers like EVgo especially are down I’ll have somewhere to charge.
Hi, Good to know that the A2Z adapter is working. I bought it in early summer, in anticipation of the access in Spring. Glad to see it does work. I have the Tesla app from back when I tried out Magic Dock. In general, I would use a CCS dispenser, but having the option is good. I only use fast charging on long trips which is a bit uncommon. I also wish the dispensers would just use a credit card, like an ordinary gas station. Dispensers that require scanning a QR logo are ridiculous-what if they have been graffitied over?
I’m thrilled to have more charging options for travel. Where I travel there aren’t any chargers except a couple of dealers. Also I can just charge for 10-15 minutes and move on. 2023 Bolt EUV.
Great video. Kind of parallels my limited experienced charging a Mach E on V3's with Magic Dock or using an adapter. While it is good to have another option and V3's and soon V4 dispensers, do fill long gaps, I have had a variety of experiences and will continue to use a CCS plug when I can.
Which location? In either case, my intent was to only occupy one stall. Hopefully, Tesla starts doing a better job of designing their sites, but it looks like most of these issues should be resolved with the V4 dispensers and layouts.
@@newscoulomb3705 The last charger you could use the charger on the left center and leave the charger near the wall for the rt passenger side or the drivers side rear.
Still checking as to how much of a big deal this is as there doesn't seem to be that many v3 chargers from michigan to texas. Why can't they open the other ones up?
Unfortunately, V2 isn't CCS compatible in any way, so it depending on the age of the charging sites in the areas where you want to charge, Superchargers might not be an option.
Nice Toto lyric reference. The GM update may have to do with the Chevy app. I believe you can get a payment wallet started. The dash interface may get location updates or available stalls. Thanks for your non Tesla etiquette. The V4 will have longer cables. Maybe with the NACS plug, standards like payment and vehicle plug location will be easier to use.
I don't think the version I bought is still available. You can look up "A2Z NACS to CCS1," and that should show you the latest version. Also, these third-party adapters aren't currently approved for use with the Superchargers, so it might be worth spending a bit extra to order the official one from GM/Tesla, especially if your EV can pull 500 A.
Yes the busy sites are a problem of California but also other major cities. the greater Miami area has plenty sites but they are always busy. Same in every major city on the east coast. As of September 2024 I have visited 2200 supercharger sites. Outside of these congested areas, I never have to wait
@@DavidDrivesElectric Yeah, you can see the stark difference between Williams and Red Bluff. At this point, the only Superchargers I'm likely to use will be rural.
You were actually taking up two spaces at the second location, in terms of Tesla cars being able to charge. That spot you were parked in was for the stall 3D away from the wall.
@@andrewt9204 True. That also means it's impossible for a car like the Bolt EV to plug in at that location without blocking two dispensers, which is just unfortunate site design.
I’d argue it’s not “unfortunate site design”, but unfortunate car design. It has always struck me as foolish that car manufacturers couldn’t standardize on the location of the charge port. Everyone HAD to be different. Vastly complicating the design of charging sites and increasing the cost of building them.
@@BeltonFamily Yet ICE cars don't require a standard fueling port, and they are universally supported by standard gas station configurations. The onus for universal support is absolutely on the charging providers, not the automakers.
How about for these "edge located" Superchargers, if Tesla would add a sticker by the adapter dock saying "Please reserve for non-Tesla vehicles. (Saves space)" Long term, if Tesla is really serious about helping improve general EV adoption, new station layouts will need to be accommodated and/or longer cables, etc. Tesla has a great opportunity here. They could become the premiere charging destination over time. Why aren't we hearing from Tesla on this issue? There's a lot to work out here. Are they serious about it? Meanwhile, Plugshare has many CCS stations that were limited to 50 kw from the time of installation. Some of these are priced at 15¢/kWh and I will always choose those if they are available, instead of Superchargers. Still, I appreciate the option if only Superchargers are available.
I think that Tesla's sacking most of their Supercharger team has something to do with why we're not hearing anything about the process of opening the Superchargers. I will say that I think the V4 dispensers address most of the issues with supporting non-Tesla EVs, and I'll likely test out a few V4 dispenser locations in the near future. I expect it to be a much better experience so long as I can get the app up and running smoothly again.
The landscape for non-Tesla DC fast charging is changing quickly! When the Supercharger deal was announced in May 2023 with Ford, CCS1 owners had already dealt with two summers of complete EA meltdowns and the future was bleak. However, I will grudgingly admit EA has improved but more importantly, more networks have opened in the last 18 months.
EA's upgrades have been working pretty well, from what I can see. Plus, the EVgo-GM Energy partnership is really starting to pay off. Even with as much as EA has been expanding, EVgo is keeping pace with a similar number of 500 A (350 kW capable) stalls.
Eric......51 cents is the regular rate and it was only some 2019 and 2020 Bolts that needed the software update. Tom on State of Charge did not get the correct information up front but he corrected the information on an update post so Bolt owners would know which years may be involved. When I called a dealership they asked for my VIN number and told me they did not think I needed the software update. I don't trust the GM dealerships since most of them don't even sell ev's and they have 1 person trained to do the work.
@@stanpiers247 Are you saying it's $0.51 per kWh after the $13/mo membership? The Williams site is listed as a flat $0.60 per kWh, which is more than the non-member rate at Electrify America.
BTW, you were blocking a stall at the Chase Bank site. You were parked in the head-in space but were plugged into the pedestal serving the adjacent back-in space. If you had pulled in shallow to the space like you did at the first site and plugged into the pedestal away from the wall, you would have occupied only one charging bay.
The head-in stall is set up for a vehicle using their hitch that can't use any of the back-in stalls. Please don't take the last one if you don't have to.
@@belletie Unfortunately, those stalls aren't properly configured for trailers because you block the driving path if you don't unhitch, so no matter what, someone will be inconvenienced. In the case of Williams, that was part of my issue. There were literally no other stalls that I could fit into when I pulled in. In the case of Red Bluff, I just misread the configuration, otherwise, I would have just blocked two standard stalls instead.
This was a comment about Supercharger head-in stalls in general and there are many cases where an attached cargo carrier or bike rack does not prevent access to the driving lane, but it prevents the short cable from reaching when backing in.
@@belletie Far enough, but please understand that for non-Tesla EV owners, the unique Supercharger stall configurations are confusing, especially when they aren't consistent from site to site.
I haven't loaded it in that yet, but I have to imagine it's the same, non-discounted rate. In fact, I've seen reports that you can't even get the $13/mo Tesla membership discount if you activate through the MyChevrolet app.
@@michaelm.7418 That's more of a cable issue with EA. The 32 kW limit is due to a 100 A safety cutoff, but EA has mostly fixed that with the upgraded cables.
Never had to hold the cable up. with my 22 Bolt Ev It doesnt seem to be an issue with my Equinox. It seems there are a lot of complaints here. I am happy to have three or four times the charging access that I had a few days ago
@@boomerbits2297 Supporting the cable is a known issue with the Bolt EV, and my Bolt EV specifically is affected. In terms of the complaints, they are all valid. I've never had issues like that with the Tesla app before, but the fact that GM EVs require it in order to access the Superchargers means it matters. As I noted throughout the video, your Supercharger experience will vary based on a number of factors including both the car and your region. If the EV supports plug and charge, the process is much easier. Also, in California specifically, there are going to be a lot more issues for non-Tesla EV drivers due to the crowding.
GM hasn't activated the plug and charge with Tesla (they haven't with Electrify America either), and that's even with the Ultium EVs that have ISO 15118. At one point, GM had mentioned companies asking for too much customer data and IP, and I think that's what they were referencing. Also, I didn't have these issues with the Tesla app in the past, so it's either the recent update or possibly something to do with the network. Honestly, it could just be due to a surge in new users following the announcement.
"Africa" is often the zero latitude and zero longitude location in the Gulf of Guinea, south of Ghana and west of Gabon. So, coordinate problem with the map.
Oh boy, I can have the privilege to charge my bolt at such a rate that the MPGe is barely better than my old Mitsu Mirage! (which granted, had crazy good mpg) It'll certainly be a nice backup in case the native CCS sites (which are usually a skip and a jump away from a supercharger) are down.
Yeah. I'm probably treating these as nothing more than back up sites and gap fillers. It think opportunity charges make sense, too, like when I stopped at the bank, but those will probably be no more than 5 to 10 minute stops.
I have an egmp car, so the lack of "800V" compatibility will keep SC as a last resort option even when Hyundai/Kia is allowed since the charging is limited to less than half of what I could get on a 350kw charger and about 60% of what I could get on a 150kw charger, plus it is expensive for non-Tesla drivers. Not to mention the short cables and charger location that is specific to Teslas, which I can't fault Tesla for, but it does limit their compatibility. I've tried a few different CCS vehicles on Magic dock SCs and none of them could charge without blocking multiple spots. My brother's Bolt struggled to reach the charger even when blocking 2 spots. That said, there are areas in the PNW, specifically in rural areas, that would justify the purchase of an adapter (when my vehicle is able to charge there) because there are literally no other options in those locations. People driving from Boise, ID to Bend, OR (two sizable cities) will know what I'm talking about. I live up in Oregon and I can assure that SC sites up here are routinely full, especially in the middle of the day and on weekends (i.e. when most people are driving and would need to use them). It's not a California specific thing at all.
Yes, and even with V4, it looks like Tesla might be opting for the strategy of increasing current rather than increasing voltage. The good news is, E-GMP charges so fast otherwise that it might be nice to stop for 30 to 40 minutes from time to time and charge while you're sitting down for a meal.
Eric, Thanks for all of your excellent presentations! They are enormously useful for we 75+ Bolt owners. Anyhow, I raced around yesterday and sent for an electron adapter and opened a Tesla Account. I messed up, however, and signed up for the $12.99/mo membership. We do not charge away from home hardly at all and thus, do not need this membership. Do you have any notion of how one cancels the $12.99/mo membership, while still keeping the non-Tesla account open and functioning? All the best, Pat Quinn
@@JosephPatrickQuinn-rj1tg Thanks! I'm sorry to hear that about the membership. I'm not sure how you can get a refund, but I think you can cancel at any time (still charged for the month, though).
@@newscoulomb3705 Correct. I don't think you can get a reimbursement, otherwise people would take advantage of that loophole and only sign up for that one charge and then get their $12.99 back. However, yes, you can cancel at any time. And then sign up again if you plan to be on a long road trip for that one month, for example. And no, you don't need to have the membership plan to have a Tesla account and use their network. The $12.99 membership is to get discount, which matches the prices that Tesla drivers pay. Which is only fair, considering the network has been built to the purchases of all those Teslas alongside investors.
The app worked fine on my phone before, so my assumption is that the Tesla App just isn't configured to work with a Wi-Fi connection. I'll turn. Wi-Fi off next time I try to use the app to activate.
Nice to know my Bolt'll probably work with them. Also nice to know it sucks :P I've never gotten above 40kW in. Mostly because the only time I public charge it's below freezing out.
Patrick and Liv on the “Mach-E Vlog” channel has a good comparison of A2Z and Lectron as well as of course the definitive Tom Malogney’s “State of Charge” channel.
Most of their current (formerly Ultium) EVs will pull 500 A for 10 to 20 minutes, which is longer than the V3 cables can provide that level of current.
Thanks. Just FYI, with a Tesla car or truck you just plug in at the Supercharger and it handles everything automatically, including starting the charging session as long as you have a credit card set up prior. You can leave your phone in your pocket the whole time. May be one day Electrify America and others will get to this level of ease and convenience.
Thanks. Yes, I'm aware. I've had that functionality in my Bolt EV on the EVgo charging network for several years now. If you own a Tesla, you can activate EVgo Autocharge. Electrify America also offers it with certain (but not all) EVs.
@@joelmarold Considering the amount of public funding Tesla has been soaking up and/or blocking from public charging providers, I think my comment was fair.
@@joelmarold I haven't been masking. 🤷♂️ I've been pretty open about Tesla blocking CPO access to public funds only to abandon the projects and strand/release those funds (e.g., Coalinga and Willows, CA). I've also been critical about Tesla installing single 50 kW chargers that they didn't even maintain in order to access incentives earmarked for public CPOs. Given their own mission statement and the public funds they receive, Tesla is obligated to open their Superchargers. Frankly, the automakers shouldn't even have to ask, especially now that there's a universal SAE J3400 standard in North America.
@@johnbaker5533 Tesla failed to maintain them, so I think they eventually pulled them out after Tesla started producing Magic Dock. Most of them were located in New York State, where Tesla was under threat of losing the incentives they were receiving as a "public" charging provider, so Tesla installed single 50 kW CPE250 units. I'd have to do a bit of research to find the specific sites (there should still be photos buried in the PlugShare locations).
Maybe? They are receiving money from programs such as NEVI and incentives for public charging providers, but that's not consistent. I can't imagine that the automakers are actually paying Tesla in any way for their customers to have access, and if they are, I think they're being taken advantage of. Tesla was forced to open their Superchargers in Europe due to regulations and loss of funding as a public CPO, and as a result, they opened their Superchargers to everyone in less than a year. The fact that it's taking as long as it is in North America tells me that very little if any money is changing hands, which is why Tesla has been dragging their feet. Tesla's primary motive at this point seems to be more about defunding and killing off other CPOs than it does about making money by granting access to the Superchargers.
What app are you using. I typed in Tesla app into Apple Store and there are several and not sure which to use. Also how can you tell which super chargers are the correct ones to use?
There should only be one, official Tesla app. In the app, it will ask you to set up your vehicle information, and then it will show which sites are open and available for your EV.
When ICE cars go for gas they use credit cards everywhere. Some off brand DCFC only use credit cards. RFID cards are very convient but some CPOs take a bank of money which is WRONG!
Yeah. I don't mind RFID, but there's still an account tied to it, just like most of the networks with Plug and Charge. We're getting to the point now where, unless you are traveling all the time and limiting yourself to just one or two networks, accounts/memberships don't make sense anymore (just like for ICE cars at gas stations).
That was one of the main reasons I traded in my 2017 Bolt for a 2024 Model Y. Going from 2 hours to charge to just 26 minutes, is a game changer. But, Tesla is creating a problem when there aren’t enough chargers to meet demand. They increased the demand, but haven’t increased the supply.
That's not how the Superchargers work. They only have 90 kW available per stall, so a Bolt EV plugging in will actually improve the experience for faster charging cars. In fact, if you are waiting in line at a full Supercharger, you will actually gain access to a stall faster if the Supercharger has a couple of Bolt EVs plugged in than you would if the Supercharger was full with other Teslas.
I'm not sure how you were using your Bolt EV, but my average time spent charging in the Bolt EV is 20 to 30 minutes. Charging for 2 hours in the Bolt EV would get you to full, a charging session that would take over an hour in a Model Y. The Model Y charges from 20% to 80% in about 26 minutes, a charge session that takes about 50 minutes in the Bolt EV (not 2 hours). Yes, that's longer, but the Bolt EV is also a cheaper, more efficient car, and many Bolt EV owners try to stick to 10% to 70% charging (35 to 40 minutes max).
@@newscoulomb3705 not everyone has access to home charging, myself included. I charge 99% of the time at work. However, the chargers have gone down a few times which made me rely on DCFC a bit. I live less than 5 minutes from a V4 supercharger that has 8 stalls. I have already seen Ford Mach-e charging there. While teslas are waiting to charge. I foresee this problem getting worse since folks are drawn to a more reliable network. This will lead to Tesla drivers waiting for stalls to open up more often. If you have many slow charging cars taking up the stalls, now the waiting time increases. This creates a worse ownership experience for Tesla drivers, who up until now have been able to reliably pull up and charge with zero waiting. I’d rather wait with all of the stalls being used by cars capable of 250kW charging speeds than cars with 50kW charging speeds. The quicker these cars can charge, the quicker we can get cars in and out.
The v3 Supercharger sites have 4x stalls per 1GW cabinet. 10% to 50% in 15 minutes is pretty typical for me, and sometimes recommended by Tesla's trip planner. Am not surprised 90kW average though. The busy Supercharger sites with 2-3 cars in lines are not unusual in CA. Furtunately, lines move pretty fast. Charge limits are automatically set to 80% by default at busy sites, but can be overriden by driver when needed. The Supercharger sites with 40+ stalls and less busy sites would be ideal if two charging spots are needed.
Thanks for the feedback. I completely forgot about Wi-Fi potentially causing issues. It used to be a problem about 5 to 6 years ago, but then everyone fixed and updated their apps so it wasn't an issue I even thought about anymore.
I think it has more to do with maintaining a captive audience, but that's irrelevant at this point because California and (if I understand it correctly) NEVI require credit card readers. I have to imagine that many states will follow California's lead on this one soon, too.
nag GM to implment PLug and Charge, like all Teslas have. Better than using an app or needing to use a credit card. Just plug your car in and it starts charging fast.
If it becomes an issue, I will. Like I mentioned, I don't mind using the app, but I prefer just having a CC reader. Also, the app needs to function. Some people have claimed it was because my phone was connected through Wi-Fi, so I'll have to try that next. The rumors I've heard is, GM doesn't like the amount of customer data and corporate IP that's available through ISO 15118 plug and charge activation, which is why they haven't allowed it. However, they are perfectly fine activating Autocharge with EVgo (they were the first to do it several years ago), so they should be fine with allowing Autocharge through any other CPOs that adopt it, too.
Tesla app is bad?! Seems like your android phone is junk. The Tesla app is BY FAR the best EV charging app in North America. Have you used the EA, EVGO app? 🤔🤔
Again, as I noted in the video, I'm not saying the Tesla app is worse than EA or EVgo's, but this experience wasn't great. Maybe it was due to my Wi-Fi connection (giving Tesla the benefit of the doubt), but it's worth noting that I was able to log into EA's app and update my membership status without any issues in under 30 seconds while the Tesla app was still open and suffering from lag.
@@newscoulomb3705 yeah, I have way more issues with both the EA and EVGO app than I do the Tesla app. I have a Model3, so I use the Tesla app almost daily, whereas I only use other charging apps when I am travelling, mostly. I do find the populating of charging sites in the Tesla map sometimes can be slow, which could definitely be your using WiFi, which populating map data is very data intensive. I would use wireless data next time you use the Tesla app like that, see if your experience is better.
It's the little things. Not only does the Bolt EV charge at over 50 kW, it does it on average, like clockwork, to about 65% battery. So when you add that to the Bolt EV's real-world efficiency and range that are still on par with or even better than many of the best modern EVs that cost twice as much, it becomes passable. If you're asking what's the point of using Superchargers, people also forget that V3 Superchargers only average 90 kW of power per stall. If a V3 site is full, but half the cars charging are Bolt EVs, it means that most EVs should still be getting their full charging power. It's a win-win for Tesla owners too, actually, so there are lots of reasons.
@@newscoulomb3705 someone made a good point, there are Teslas and other faster charging EV that now have to compete with a slow charging bolt so there's that…
@@Magicinstalls Yes, but a lot of people don't understand how the Superchargers work. The V3 Superchargers only have 90 kW per stall, so having a slower charging EV in one stall actually increases the power available to the other stalls. In some cases, the entire site is limited to power of ~50 kW per stall, and in those cases, when the site is full, everyone charging is essentially a Bolt EV. The only way that Bolt EVs would ever slow down a Supercharger site is if more than half the stalls were filled with Bolt EVs, which is highly unlikely.
@@newscoulomb3705 yes but do they charge slower at 50 kW? Meaning other people will have to wait for them if the charger is crowded. Plus it will take up two stalls. Just like my mustang mock E will take up two stalls, my E transit will not.
@@Magicinstalls Yes, they might charge slower than 50 kW, and relative to the battery size, their charging would be FAR slower than the Bolt EV's (e.g., the Mach-E's battery is 30% larger, so charging at 50 kW is effectively like a Bolt EV charging at 30 kW). Also, as you saw from my first stop, unlike the Mach-E, it is possible for the Bolt EV to take only one stall because of its overall length. Also, as others have pointed out, I misread the site in Red Bluff, but I easily could have only taken up one stall there as well.
Honestly, it might be worth it. Right now, these other adapters aren't sanctioned. Given how hot my adapter got just on 150 A, I don't think I would try to charge an Ultium EV using an unsactioned adapter. When it melts and burns out from heat, I want them replacing it under warranty.
Lol.😂 Just use proper etiquette and common sense. If another non-Tesla is charging, try to park right next to it. That way, only one stall is being wasted rather than two. If that rule is followed, only one, or at the most two, spots would be wasted for the entire site.
Yup. One of the reasons I still don't mind traveling with the Bolt EV is because I can travel 400+ miles with just a couple of short bathroom breaks and a sit-down meal stop.
so far my lifetime charge experience with tesla is worse than with EA.... and I dont get as high a speed on Tesla as I do on EA.... so i dunno... i like they open some places that I couldnt 'easily' get to and they are a nice back up... but seriously .. if Tesla wanted to be a public CPO as they claim they wanted to forever..... why did they not start putting v4s in the ground when they started doing v4s in EU? Since the announcement alone they still put TONS of v3s in the ground in not-usable configuration. .. and yeah... they fact their own system doesnt even support the J3400 they were pushing so hard always makes me laugh.
also 36:31 you are blocking 2 stalls... you are using 3C... but your in 3D... the stall for your spot is the one at the rear of your car.... 3C is for a backed in car next to your car to the left. It is almost impossible for any of us CCS to actually not take an extra stall.. now if 3D had been front mounted like 3C, then yes, you could be in a space to the right of 3D and not take an "extra" stall. And its possible that someone in an CCS could theoreically come and use 3D (like my car backed in might work? ... ive never had that configuration... . one time I had that stall configuration (like your first charge) it puts my car in the main road.. and I ABSOLUTELY refuse to do that.... period. It's Tesla's problem, not mine, that I have to use 2 stalls. Again they could easily just retrofit every V3 with V4 dispensers TODAY if they wanted to... but they dont.
Yes, I'm not sure why Tesla is making the automakers work with them to gain access. Magic Dock and SAE J3400 prove that Tesla could have opened their V3 Superchargers at any point, and there's absolutely no reason for them to be making the automakers jump through hoops for access.
I can't believe there is not more people talking about this. Does your delayed charging departure time setting in the app work? Mine doesn't and I've had an open case with support about it for nearly a year now. They know it doesn't work, and they don't care. I made a screen recording showing what I'm talking about, but I can't link to it here, it would cause this comment to be removed. I'm not a youtubber, but it's on my public videos.
I can totally appreciate that, but now that they are open and an option, I want to make sure to cover them. People also feel similarly about charging on networks owned by oil and gas companies, so a different reason, but similar reasoning. I hope that I've at least somewhat helped show the EV alternatives for people wo do not want to support Elon, directly or indirectly.
@@newscoulomb3705 Hi Eric, I do appreciate that you are showing alternative DC charging options. It was not a criticism of you showing us the Tesla option. I think networks owned by oil and gas companies are actually a good thing, because they are perhaps getting involved in a transition to cleaner energy, unless it's just a publicity stunt to pretend they are concerned about transitioning. I don't know. But, if I charge at one, at least I am supporting a transition. Do you know who owns the Electrify America network?
@@Jeff-wb3hh Technically, Electrify America is owned by VW, but it is suppose to be operating independently. EVgo had a similar start because it was funded by a judgment against NRG following the Enron scandal, but it is now an independent subsidiary of LS Power. I do agree with you about having gas companies help fund the transition. That's where most of the independent capital is, and it's likely to be one of the only ways to fully fund the development of EV infrastructure.
What's strange is that only EA seems to have issues integrating credit card readers. In dozens of CC activations on other networks, I've never had a failure/issue due to the CC reader.
The way V3 Superchargers work, they only have about 90 kW available to each stall. The only time a Bolt EV charging at a Supercharger would matter is if the site is full, but if the site is full, the fact that a Bolt EV is hooked up means everyone else would be charging faster. In other words, if you're waiting in line a at a full Supercharger that has a couple of Bolt EVs plugged in, you'll access a charger sooner than you would if the site had been full with Teslas.
You'll be okay. Bolt drivers are paying customers just like everyone else. They were given permission to use the Superchargers so that's what they will do.
Still the slowest and weakest charging in the industry from a car that started in 2016 .... Considering the CEO is an Electrical Engineer that gets paid a million a month ..... GM stand for Generally Mediocre
To be fair, the Bolt EV is still to this day one of the cheapest EV options with a range that matches many more expensive EVs. Also, GM currently also offers the fastest charging EV, so it really is a spectrum. You can get it fast charging, long range, or low cost: Choose any two.
A2Z has addressed the locking problem that Eric is referring to in his video. They call it the Typhoon Pro and it is the only one they are selling now as far as I know.
I have the Tesla app on three different phones, iOS and Android. No lagging.
I agree about the app fatigue. I have so many charge network apps and on my travels I still manage to find even new ones. It's silly. In the UK they passed a law that they have to take CC payment without an app.
I imagine Tesla superchargers will serve as a security blanket for many with primary charging still planned at other providers.
Researching, trusting, acquiring and then learning how to use the right adapter will be a heavy lift for many. This barrier to entry will be significant for non-nerd EV users. And can you even imagine someone with a rental EV jumping through these hoops?
If Tesla had been serious about opening their network wouldn’t they have gone for widespread Magic Dock application instead of this BYO adapter path?
@@skyemalcolm I 1000% agree. I have been saying every new installation should be V4 with magic dock. Problem solved. I went to a 40 station one in Mt. Laurel New Jersey and it was an amazing experience. Every brand of car was there charging including Tesla. No issues with parking weird, nothing. Perfect experience.
@@patrick7228 if you make it down to SoCal there’s a 20 stall V4 MD site in the Carson Ca civic center complex of buildings. In 2024 my observation is that no fast charging option out there feels like a good primary source of energy for EVs but it seems many ride share drivers and others living in shared housing where no overnight charging is possible rely on DCFC. For that large Tesla sites would seem to be a more reliable choice in terms of open chargers and working equipment than the current alternatives.
I charged on a Tesla v3 today with my 2022 bolt EV . Super easy to charge.
Thanks. You saved me an hour!
A tip on that A2Z adapter, lock it first, then plug the Tesla side in. That works 100% of the time for me!
Oh, that's interesting. I didn't think we were able to plug the cable in after the lock has been latched.
@@newscoulomb3705 Also, on State of Charge, break up the connection while plugged in too. Makes it easier to separate the two.
Can you get the update for the superchargers at Wittmeier in Chico?❤😮
“I do miss the rains down there” 😂😂😂
dumdum dadum da dum dum duuuuum.
The last time I needed public charging in my Bolt, I used a 62 kW Chargepoint at a gas station off the highway and, to best honest, if I were doing that trip again with supercharger access, I'd probably use the same chargepoint site again, as the experience was hassle-free and charged the car as fast as the car was capable of.
I do still anticipate, at some point, paying the $225 for the adapter, but it will be more about the peace of mind of having a backup option in case CCS stations go down, than with the intention of actually using it. But, of course, if a rare situation does arise where charging at Tesla is the most convenient option, I will do it.
On the east coast, the supercharger network vastly outnumbers CCS (though at least CCS is expanding). Unfortunately, Tesla seems to be limiting V4 with Magic dock right now. A new V4 site near my house doesn't support CCS even though it has magic dock. I'm not sure why they are doing that. My CCS EV will probably never get native access to the Tesla network, so that is disappointing.
I have a 2019 Bolt EV and I received an email from Chevrolet saying I need the software update for Tesla supercharger access. Unfortunately my local dealership is still completely clueless about it even after sending them the email I received. Im not sure how this information is supposed to be disseminated to them but hopefully won't take too long.
You don’t really need to worry about multiple CCS cars taking up to many spots because as long as the CCS cars park beside each other, only one spot total is wasted. Even if there are a bunch of CCS cars charge using the ‘wrong’ spot.
Hi Eric. Did you have to get a software update on your Bolt EV to be able to use the Tesla supercharger?
No, I didn't need to have a software update.
Wow, because I’m currently at the Chevy dealership and they’re telling me I do. Maybe I should try using the supercharger before paying for the update. Thank you.
@@esteven38 It depends on the model year. Apparently, some 2019 and 2020 Bolt EVs might need the update. I'd test the Superchargers first, and if they work, you know you don't need the update.
I have a 2020 Bolt, and I can use the superchargers without the update using my Lectron adapter.
Eric, you need to take a really long trip through a CCS charging desert, like I80 across Wyoming, to appreciate how useful Supercharger access is going to be to CCS EV owners. And it isn't just Wyoming; there are lots of places where CCS EVs that don't have Lucid-like range will be left thinking, "I can't get there from here". Access to Tesla Superchargers will provide a couple things desperately needed: bridging big gaps in the CCS network, and providing backup, for when you get there with 30 miles range left, all both of the ChargePoint chargers don't work, and it's 60 miles to the next CCS charger. Las Cruces to Albuquerque, I'm lookin' at you.
I am aware. Remember, I'm the guy who was driving a CCS EV to the North and South Rims of the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Susanville, Zion, etc. 6 to 7 years ago. That's why I'm also aware of just how few and far between those remaining "deserts" are.
Sure, I'm not a big fan of Tesla metering access. Magic Dock proves that they could open the network to every modern CCS1 EV today with the flip of a switch, yet they are still making each and every automaker jump through hoops to gain access to the Superchargers on behalf of their respective customers. That's just wrong, in my opinion. Especially when Tesla is pulling in more and more funding earmarked for public charging providers.
However, I do feel that I'm being fair, here, and I tried to stay as positive as possible. I fully acknowledge that access to the Superchargers is a great option and an overall positive development, I just don't know how often CCS EV owners will prioritize them. I feel like people want me to proclaim access to the Superchargers as some sort of a "game changer," but it simply isn't. Outside of maybe half a dozen
You have the old A2Z adapter. The charge will not initiate if the lock is not in the correct position. That is why the charge didn't start the first time at the second location. The new Typhoon Pro adapter has a spring loaded lock that is easier to use.
As someone who lives in the middle of the country this is really needed
Eric if you read the press release from general motors they tell you to use the my chevy app to start your charge that sometimes the tesla app does have an issue.
Yes, but my Tesla app was already installed and set up with payment. These issues had more to do with the app itself being slow and unresponsive. The charger activation itself was fine.
To do much of anything in MyChevrolet seems to require an OnStar sub. No go for me.
@@catnaplappdx5001 That is correct if you're gonna want all the functionalities of your car, you will need to pay the subscription from onstar.
We all remember those situations where there’s only 1 or 2 DC chargers in some town or remote area, and both of them - for whatever reason - aren’t able to distribute a charge when you show up. They’re still out there in a lot of the country, but now there are options that aren’t 80-100 miles away, or we now have the confidence that if we show up at the authorized SC, that with 8 or 12 dispensers on the property, we’re virtually guaranteed to get a charge with no issues or unplanned route changes. Once you possess an adapter, having Tesla in your back pocket is quite a confidence booster for the long distance CCS drivers. I see that WV is now accessible to CCS cars with virtually no issues. I couldn’t say that last week.
@@dennislyon5412 While true, we have to remember, this is still just Ford, GM, and Rivian. Lots of others are still waiting.
Also, the landscape is very different now. Yes, Supercharger access will always be better than not having access. And yes, there are still a few places that are only easily accessible with Supercharger access, but they are very rare at this point. I might visit one of those charging deserts soon, but it really is one of the few that are left.
Eric with the Toto reference 😂 4:02
I've used both the Chevy app and Tesla and there is just no comparison. The Tesla app is SOOOOO much better than anything GM has put out. It must be your phone, never been laggy on any phone I've ever used.
Yes, I've never had any issues with my Tesla app over six years of use. It's one of the most reliable apps I have used. I'm on iOS if that makes a difference.
Some people have mentioned that it could have been because I was on Wi-Fi. I used to have to shut Wi-Fi down for some apps, but most of them were fixed and updated about 6 to 7 years ago. So it hasn't been an issue for a long time, but maybe Tesla never fixed their app. I'll try it on cellular/wireless next time.
I use V3s as backup sites. I'll use a V4 as the target stop as I don't need two spaces, or the right-most space.
Did you get the software update at the dealership before you went to the supercharger?
No, there was no update required for my Bolt EV.
An interesting thing I noticed. V4 Stations have small screens in California but not in other states. I assume it is because California requires a screen at an EV charger to be eligible for their grants.
Yes, that's now a requirement in California, along with point-of-sale payment options such as credit card readers. I believe NEVI has similar requirements. Tesla actually had to abandon several public grants for crucial public charging hubs in California on I-5 and I-15 because the State wouldn't give them an exemption to the regulations governing public charging providers, and Tesla couldn't retrofit their V3 chargers to comply with the State's requirements.
I’m pretty sure the adapter you have is either recalled or at least no longer sold. I wonder if A2Z would replace it for you with the new “pro” version with a redesigned locking mechanism
@@airplanenut6242 Yes, that's probably the case, but I might rather get an official, approved adapter instead.
Cool! I have 2017 Bolt too. This is awesome news. I am in Oregon, and they have pull through SC’s in Bandon where my mom lives, so this will be helpful.
So you didn't need the update from the dealer for your bolt? The mygm app for my 2022bolt euv said I needed it
Nope. I uploaded a new thumbnail to let people know upfront that it didn't require an update.
The update was only for some 2019 and 2020 Bolt EV models. That was on the bulletin that went out to dealerships.
Service Bulletin that is and the dealership I called is supposed to be sending me a copy.
You need it to be able to plug an charge. Otherwise you have to activate through the tesla app.
would be useful for me in southern oregon, dont always have to go to grants pass EA and should be able to use the ashland or medford supercharger.
I 2 start in Africa. Maybe it’s the center point?
Cool vid. Candid & honest reflection. I agree, it is good to gap fill, but not as a first choice. Gonna stick with EVgo membership for the time being. Thanks for the video. I enjoyed watching
Yup. The one thing I don't do is rose-colored filters. I do try to give the benefit of the doubt, though, so I'm going to confirm that it wasn't just my phone/connection with the Tesla app as well as to try out some V4 Superchargers, which are much better configured for non-Tesla EVs.
Since I have the ccs for my leaf I’m going to order this adapter for my girls bolt
@@nomadichippie It definitely opens up some options, especially when crossing the country.
@@newscoulomb3705I’m stuck with magic dock with the leaf
53:10 That’s exactly how I feel. I’ve had numerous new, RELIABLE non-Tesla stations open near me in the last 12 months. The only benefit for me in Minnesota is the few Tesla stations they’ve installed WAY off the interstates in small towns. Besides those, I’ll stick with EA, EVGo and Circle K.
I think it’s good to just have the option. It adds to my peace of mind knowing that if the other common chargers like EVgo especially are down I’ll have somewhere to charge.
@@unccred Yup. The Superchargers are a great backup option.
Hi, Good to know that the A2Z adapter is working. I bought it in early summer, in anticipation of the access in Spring. Glad to see it does work. I have the Tesla app from back when I tried out Magic Dock. In general, I would use a CCS dispenser, but having the option is good. I only use fast charging on long trips which is a bit uncommon. I also wish the dispensers would just use a credit card, like an ordinary gas station. Dispensers that require scanning a QR logo are ridiculous-what if they have been graffitied over?
I’m thrilled to have more charging options for travel. Where I travel there aren’t any chargers except a couple of dealers. Also I can just charge for 10-15 minutes and move on. 2023 Bolt EUV.
Great video. Kind of parallels my limited experienced charging a Mach E on V3's with Magic Dock or using an adapter. While it is good to have another option and V3's and soon V4 dispensers, do fill long gaps, I have had a variety of experiences and will continue to use a CCS plug when I can.
Why didn't you use the center charger to leave the charger you used for a Tesla?
Not used to big numbers above 4 chargers ...
Which location? In either case, my intent was to only occupy one stall. Hopefully, Tesla starts doing a better job of designing their sites, but it looks like most of these issues should be resolved with the V4 dispensers and layouts.
@@newscoulomb3705 The last charger you could use the charger on the left center and leave the charger near the wall for the rt passenger side or the drivers side rear.
Does my 2017 Bolt need the software update from the dealership?
Apparently only some 2019 and 2020 model years need the software update.
My 2020 Bolt works without the update
Still checking as to how much of a big deal this is as there doesn't seem to be that many v3 chargers from michigan to texas. Why can't they open the other ones up?
Unfortunately, V2 isn't CCS compatible in any way, so it depending on the age of the charging sites in the areas where you want to charge, Superchargers might not be an option.
Nice Toto lyric reference. The GM update may have to do with the Chevy app. I believe you can get a payment wallet started. The dash interface may get location updates or available stalls. Thanks for your non Tesla etiquette. The V4 will have longer cables. Maybe with the NACS plug, standards like payment and vehicle plug location will be easier to use.
Lucky DOG! When is Audi & Porsche getting access????
Hey there! Could you please do me a favor and add a link to your adapter? Thanks!
I don't think the version I bought is still available. You can look up "A2Z NACS to CCS1," and that should show you the latest version. Also, these third-party adapters aren't currently approved for use with the Superchargers, so it might be worth spending a bit extra to order the official one from GM/Tesla, especially if your EV can pull 500 A.
@@newscoulomb3705 thank you
Yes the busy sites are a problem of California but also other major cities. the greater Miami area has plenty sites but they are always busy. Same in every major city on the east coast. As of September 2024 I have visited 2200 supercharger sites. Outside of these congested areas, I never have to wait
@@DavidDrivesElectric Yeah, you can see the stark difference between Williams and Red Bluff. At this point, the only Superchargers I'm likely to use will be rural.
You were actually taking up two spaces at the second location, in terms of Tesla cars being able to charge. That spot you were parked in was for the stall 3D away from the wall.
@@andrewt9204 Yeah, I figured that out after the fact.
@@newscoulomb3705 Well with all the different charge port locations, easy to forget. I only noticed right away being a Tesla owner.
@@andrewt9204 True. That also means it's impossible for a car like the Bolt EV to plug in at that location without blocking two dispensers, which is just unfortunate site design.
I’d argue it’s not “unfortunate site design”, but unfortunate car design. It has always struck me as foolish that car manufacturers couldn’t standardize on the location of the charge port. Everyone HAD to be different. Vastly complicating the design of charging sites and increasing the cost of building them.
@@BeltonFamily Yet ICE cars don't require a standard fueling port, and they are universally supported by standard gas station configurations. The onus for universal support is absolutely on the charging providers, not the automakers.
How about for these "edge located" Superchargers, if Tesla would add a sticker by the adapter dock saying "Please reserve for non-Tesla vehicles. (Saves space)"
Long term, if Tesla is really serious about helping improve general EV adoption, new station layouts will need to be accommodated and/or longer cables, etc.
Tesla has a great opportunity here. They could become the premiere charging destination over time.
Why aren't we hearing from Tesla on this issue? There's a lot to work out here. Are they serious about it?
Meanwhile, Plugshare has many CCS stations that were limited to 50 kw from the time of installation. Some of these are priced at 15¢/kWh and I will always choose those if they are available, instead of Superchargers. Still, I appreciate the option if only Superchargers are available.
I think that Tesla's sacking most of their Supercharger team has something to do with why we're not hearing anything about the process of opening the Superchargers. I will say that I think the V4 dispensers address most of the issues with supporting non-Tesla EVs, and I'll likely test out a few V4 dispenser locations in the near future. I expect it to be a much better experience so long as I can get the app up and running smoothly again.
The landscape for non-Tesla DC fast charging is changing quickly! When the Supercharger deal was announced in May 2023 with Ford, CCS1 owners had already dealt with two summers of complete EA meltdowns and the future was bleak. However, I will grudgingly admit EA has improved but more importantly, more networks have opened in the last 18 months.
EA's upgrades have been working pretty well, from what I can see. Plus, the EVgo-GM Energy partnership is really starting to pay off. Even with as much as EA has been expanding, EVgo is keeping pace with a similar number of 500 A (350 kW capable) stalls.
Eric......51 cents is the regular rate and it was only some 2019 and 2020 Bolts that needed the software update. Tom on State of Charge did not get the correct information up front but he corrected the information on an update post so Bolt owners would know which years may be involved. When I called a dealership they asked for my VIN number and told me they did not think I needed the software update. I don't trust the GM dealerships since most of them don't even sell ev's and they have 1 person trained to do the work.
@@stanpiers247 Are you saying it's $0.51 per kWh after the $13/mo membership? The Williams site is listed as a flat $0.60 per kWh, which is more than the non-member rate at Electrify America.
What adapter do you guys recommend? B 2023
I got the A2Z typhoon pro. Worked great
BTW, you were blocking a stall at the Chase Bank site. You were parked in the head-in space but were plugged into the pedestal serving the adjacent back-in space. If you had pulled in shallow to the space like you did at the first site and plugged into the pedestal away from the wall, you would have occupied only one charging bay.
Yeah, I didn't realize until after the fact that the spots were reversed. I would have paid closer attention if the site had been busier.
The head-in stall is set up for a vehicle using their hitch that can't use any of the back-in stalls. Please don't take the last one if you don't have to.
@@belletie Unfortunately, those stalls aren't properly configured for trailers because you block the driving path if you don't unhitch, so no matter what, someone will be inconvenienced. In the case of Williams, that was part of my issue. There were literally no other stalls that I could fit into when I pulled in. In the case of Red Bluff, I just misread the configuration, otherwise, I would have just blocked two standard stalls instead.
This was a comment about Supercharger head-in stalls in general and there are many cases where an attached cargo carrier or bike rack does not prevent access to the driving lane, but it prevents the short cable from reaching when backing in.
@@belletie Far enough, but please understand that for non-Tesla EV owners, the unique Supercharger stall configurations are confusing, especially when they aren't consistent from site to site.
What is the rate in the GM app......I have not been able to use the GM app yet. I made need an app update.
I haven't loaded it in that yet, but I have to imagine it's the same, non-discounted rate. In fact, I've seen reports that you can't even get the $13/mo Tesla membership discount if you activate through the MyChevrolet app.
Hopefully the Superchargers can fix the issue with EA chargers of de-rating Bolts to 32kW in high heat...
@@michaelm.7418 That's more of a cable issue with EA. The 32 kW limit is due to a 100 A safety cutoff, but EA has mostly fixed that with the upgraded cables.
You may not have to hold the heavy cable up any more with Superchargers!
We'll have to see with V4, but at this point, those will probably be my priority moving forward.
@@newscoulomb3705 True
Never had to hold the cable up. with my 22 Bolt Ev It doesnt seem to be an issue with my Equinox. It seems there are a lot of complaints here. I am happy to have three or four times the charging access that I had a few days ago
Which app were you using. Tesla or my chevy
@@boomerbits2297 Supporting the cable is a known issue with the Bolt EV, and my Bolt EV specifically is affected. In terms of the complaints, they are all valid. I've never had issues like that with the Tesla app before, but the fact that GM EVs require it in order to access the Superchargers means it matters.
As I noted throughout the video, your Supercharger experience will vary based on a number of factors including both the car and your region. If the EV supports plug and charge, the process is much easier. Also, in California specifically, there are going to be a lot more issues for non-Tesla EV drivers due to the crowding.
Norfolk Va & Rehoboth De are two places I go where Tesla is ahead of CCS CPOs!
Did you have to do the charge cable hold/lift on yours like we 2017 owners do with EA heavy cords?
@@unccred Not with V3. I'll have to test that on V4, though.
You need the software update if you want to plug and charge. Must be your phone zero issues with it on my Samsung phone.
GM hasn't activated the plug and charge with Tesla (they haven't with Electrify America either), and that's even with the Ultium EVs that have ISO 15118. At one point, GM had mentioned companies asking for too much customer data and IP, and I think that's what they were referencing.
Also, I didn't have these issues with the Tesla app in the past, so it's either the recent update or possibly something to do with the network. Honestly, it could just be due to a surge in new users following the announcement.
"Africa" is often the zero latitude and zero longitude location in the Gulf of Guinea, south of Ghana and west of Gabon. So, coordinate problem with the map.
Its your phone is slow. The app on my phone was super fast !
Oh boy, I can have the privilege to charge my bolt at such a rate that the MPGe is barely better than my old Mitsu Mirage! (which granted, had crazy good mpg)
It'll certainly be a nice backup in case the native CCS sites (which are usually a skip and a jump away from a supercharger) are down.
Yeah. I'm probably treating these as nothing more than back up sites and gap fillers. It think opportunity charges make sense, too, like when I stopped at the bank, but those will probably be no more than 5 to 10 minute stops.
I have an egmp car, so the lack of "800V" compatibility will keep SC as a last resort option even when Hyundai/Kia is allowed since the charging is limited to less than half of what I could get on a 350kw charger and about 60% of what I could get on a 150kw charger, plus it is expensive for non-Tesla drivers. Not to mention the short cables and charger location that is specific to Teslas, which I can't fault Tesla for, but it does limit their compatibility. I've tried a few different CCS vehicles on Magic dock SCs and none of them could charge without blocking multiple spots. My brother's Bolt struggled to reach the charger even when blocking 2 spots.
That said, there are areas in the PNW, specifically in rural areas, that would justify the purchase of an adapter (when my vehicle is able to charge there) because there are literally no other options in those locations. People driving from Boise, ID to Bend, OR (two sizable cities) will know what I'm talking about.
I live up in Oregon and I can assure that SC sites up here are routinely full, especially in the middle of the day and on weekends (i.e. when most people are driving and would need to use them). It's not a California specific thing at all.
Yes, and even with V4, it looks like Tesla might be opting for the strategy of increasing current rather than increasing voltage. The good news is, E-GMP charges so fast otherwise that it might be nice to stop for 30 to 40 minutes from time to time and charge while you're sitting down for a meal.
Eric,
Thanks for all of your excellent presentations! They are enormously useful for we 75+ Bolt owners. Anyhow, I raced around yesterday and sent for an electron adapter and opened a Tesla Account. I messed up, however, and signed up for the $12.99/mo membership. We do not charge away from home hardly at all and thus, do not need this membership. Do you have any notion of how one cancels the $12.99/mo membership, while still keeping the non-Tesla account open and functioning?
All the best,
Pat Quinn
@@JosephPatrickQuinn-rj1tg Thanks! I'm sorry to hear that about the membership. I'm not sure how you can get a refund, but I think you can cancel at any time (still charged for the month, though).
@@newscoulomb3705 Correct. I don't think you can get a reimbursement, otherwise people would take advantage of that loophole and only sign up for that one charge and then get their $12.99 back. However, yes, you can cancel at any time. And then sign up again if you plan to be on a long road trip for that one month, for example.
And no, you don't need to have the membership plan to have a Tesla account and use their network. The $12.99 membership is to get discount, which matches the prices that Tesla drivers pay. Which is only fair, considering the network has been built to the purchases of all those Teslas alongside investors.
it finally happened!!! more options the better!!!!! 💪💪
Only a few 2019 and 2020 Bolts need an update. This isn’t a big deal
Thank you for telling us that. It sounded a couple of days ago like everybody needed it.
2nd Generation A2Z has an easier lock.
OK Thanks!
i got a new phone and the app is much better. however still no chargers for my car.
The app worked fine on my phone before, so my assumption is that the Tesla App just isn't configured to work with a Wi-Fi connection. I'll turn. Wi-Fi off next time I try to use the app to activate.
Nice to know my Bolt'll probably work with them.
Also nice to know it sucks :P
I've never gotten above 40kW in. Mostly because the only time I public charge it's below freezing out.
Thanks again!
Any one test a third party adapter?
Eric did here; he is using the A2Z adapter.
Patrick and Liv on the “Mach-E Vlog” channel has a good comparison of A2Z and Lectron as well as of course the definitive Tom Malogney’s “State of Charge” channel.
I have the Lectron adapter for my 2020 Bolt. Works great, and no update needed from GM.
The Lectron and A2Z both work fine and are rated to 500mw a number no GM " EV " will ever see if the company survives at all.
Most of their current (formerly Ultium) EVs will pull 500 A for 10 to 20 minutes, which is longer than the V3 cables can provide that level of current.
I think you meant to say that you BLESS the rains down in Africa.
I blame the Mandela effect!
@@newscoulomb3705 Haha. No big deal. "Miss," "bless" -- nothing about the song makes any sense either way.
Thank You Everybody for All that you are doing for our Planet Earth....
Peace.. Shalom.. Salam.. Namaste
🙏🏻 😊 ✌ ☮ ❤
Thanks. Just FYI, with a Tesla car or truck you just plug in at the Supercharger and it handles everything automatically, including starting the charging session as long as you have a credit card set up prior. You can leave your phone in your pocket the whole time. May be one day Electrify America and others will get to this level of ease and convenience.
Thanks. Yes, I'm aware. I've had that functionality in my Bolt EV on the EVgo charging network for several years now. If you own a Tesla, you can activate EVgo Autocharge. Electrify America also offers it with certain (but not all) EVs.
Perhaps instead of saying “finally got their super chargers open” perhaps you can say .. tesla graciously allowed us to use them ?
@@joelmarold Considering the amount of public funding Tesla has been soaking up and/or blocking from public charging providers, I think my comment was fair.
@@newscoulomb3705yeah nah .. but now we can see your true attitude
@@joelmarold I haven't been masking. 🤷♂️ I've been pretty open about Tesla blocking CPO access to public funds only to abandon the projects and strand/release those funds (e.g., Coalinga and Willows, CA). I've also been critical about Tesla installing single 50 kW chargers that they didn't even maintain in order to access incentives earmarked for public CPOs.
Given their own mission statement and the public funds they receive, Tesla is obligated to open their Superchargers. Frankly, the automakers shouldn't even have to ask, especially now that there's a universal SAE J3400 standard in North America.
@@newscoulomb3705 I don't know if you will read these comments but where are "Tesla installing single 50 kW chargers "?
@@johnbaker5533 Tesla failed to maintain them, so I think they eventually pulled them out after Tesla started producing Magic Dock. Most of them were located in New York State, where Tesla was under threat of losing the incentives they were receiving as a "public" charging provider, so Tesla installed single 50 kW CPE250 units. I'd have to do a bit of research to find the specific sites (there should still be photos buried in the PlugShare locations).
i thought tesla was being paid to convert their network for everyone to use?
Maybe? They are receiving money from programs such as NEVI and incentives for public charging providers, but that's not consistent. I can't imagine that the automakers are actually paying Tesla in any way for their customers to have access, and if they are, I think they're being taken advantage of.
Tesla was forced to open their Superchargers in Europe due to regulations and loss of funding as a public CPO, and as a result, they opened their Superchargers to everyone in less than a year. The fact that it's taking as long as it is in North America tells me that very little if any money is changing hands, which is why Tesla has been dragging their feet.
Tesla's primary motive at this point seems to be more about defunding and killing off other CPOs than it does about making money by granting access to the Superchargers.
What app are you using. I typed in Tesla app into Apple Store and there are several and not sure which to use. Also how can you tell which super chargers are the correct ones to use?
There should only be one, official Tesla app. In the app, it will ask you to set up your vehicle information, and then it will show which sites are open and available for your EV.
For me, it's the only app that shows up with the Tesla Logo. Android.
When ICE cars go for gas they use credit cards everywhere. Some off brand DCFC only use credit cards. RFID cards are very convient but some CPOs take a bank of money which is WRONG!
Yeah. I don't mind RFID, but there's still an account tied to it, just like most of the networks with Plug and Charge. We're getting to the point now where, unless you are traveling all the time and limiting yourself to just one or two networks, accounts/memberships don't make sense anymore (just like for ICE cars at gas stations).
GREAT. Now we gotta deal with bolts hogging up superchargers charging until 100%. I don’t mind other cars that charge faster but bolts. Damn.
That was one of the main reasons I traded in my 2017 Bolt for a 2024 Model Y. Going from 2 hours to charge to just 26 minutes, is a game changer.
But, Tesla is creating a problem when there aren’t enough chargers to meet demand. They increased the demand, but haven’t increased the supply.
That's not how the Superchargers work. They only have 90 kW available per stall, so a Bolt EV plugging in will actually improve the experience for faster charging cars. In fact, if you are waiting in line at a full Supercharger, you will actually gain access to a stall faster if the Supercharger has a couple of Bolt EVs plugged in than you would if the Supercharger was full with other Teslas.
I'm not sure how you were using your Bolt EV, but my average time spent charging in the Bolt EV is 20 to 30 minutes. Charging for 2 hours in the Bolt EV would get you to full, a charging session that would take over an hour in a Model Y. The Model Y charges from 20% to 80% in about 26 minutes, a charge session that takes about 50 minutes in the Bolt EV (not 2 hours). Yes, that's longer, but the Bolt EV is also a cheaper, more efficient car, and many Bolt EV owners try to stick to 10% to 70% charging (35 to 40 minutes max).
@@newscoulomb3705 not everyone has access to home charging, myself included. I charge 99% of the time at work. However, the chargers have gone down a few times which made me rely on DCFC a bit.
I live less than 5 minutes from a V4 supercharger that has 8 stalls. I have already seen Ford Mach-e charging there. While teslas are waiting to charge. I foresee this problem getting worse since folks are drawn to a more reliable network. This will lead to Tesla drivers waiting for stalls to open up more often. If you have many slow charging cars taking up the stalls, now the waiting time increases. This creates a worse ownership experience for Tesla drivers, who up until now have been able to reliably pull up and charge with zero waiting.
I’d rather wait with all of the stalls being used by cars capable of 250kW charging speeds than cars with 50kW charging speeds. The quicker these cars can charge, the quicker we can get cars in and out.
The v3 Supercharger sites have 4x stalls per 1GW cabinet. 10% to 50% in 15 minutes is pretty typical for me, and sometimes recommended by Tesla's trip planner. Am not surprised 90kW average though.
The busy Supercharger sites with 2-3 cars in lines are not unusual in CA. Furtunately, lines move pretty fast. Charge limits are automatically set to 80% by default at busy sites, but can be overriden by driver when needed. The Supercharger sites with 40+ stalls and less busy sites would be ideal if two charging spots are needed.
You all need to learn how the property park in the charging stalls in California.
First off, take your phone off of wifi. What are you connecting to? Tesla app is flawless with me.
Thanks for the feedback. I completely forgot about Wi-Fi potentially causing issues. It used to be a problem about 5 to 6 years ago, but then everyone fixed and updated their apps so it wasn't an issue I even thought about anymore.
maybe their afraid that crooks will put card reader on station, so no credit card
I think it has more to do with maintaining a captive audience, but that's irrelevant at this point because California and (if I understand it correctly) NEVI require credit card readers. I have to imagine that many states will follow California's lead on this one soon, too.
nag GM to implment PLug and Charge, like all Teslas have. Better than using an app or needing to use a credit card. Just plug your car in and it starts charging fast.
If it becomes an issue, I will. Like I mentioned, I don't mind using the app, but I prefer just having a CC reader. Also, the app needs to function. Some people have claimed it was because my phone was connected through Wi-Fi, so I'll have to try that next.
The rumors I've heard is, GM doesn't like the amount of customer data and corporate IP that's available through ISO 15118 plug and charge activation, which is why they haven't allowed it. However, they are perfectly fine activating Autocharge with EVgo (they were the first to do it several years ago), so they should be fine with allowing Autocharge through any other CPOs that adopt it, too.
Tesla app is bad?! Seems like your android phone is junk. The Tesla app is BY FAR the best EV charging app in North America. Have you used the EA, EVGO app? 🤔🤔
Again, as I noted in the video, I'm not saying the Tesla app is worse than EA or EVgo's, but this experience wasn't great. Maybe it was due to my Wi-Fi connection (giving Tesla the benefit of the doubt), but it's worth noting that I was able to log into EA's app and update my membership status without any issues in under 30 seconds while the Tesla app was still open and suffering from lag.
@@newscoulomb3705 yeah, I have way more issues with both the EA and EVGO app than I do the Tesla app. I have a Model3, so I use the Tesla app almost daily, whereas I only use other charging apps when I am travelling, mostly. I do find the populating of charging sites in the Tesla map sometimes can be slow, which could definitely be your using WiFi, which populating map data is very data intensive. I would use wireless data next time you use the Tesla app like that, see if your experience is better.
Ok toto jr❤😂
Bolt only charges at 50kw! What's the point?
It's the little things. Not only does the Bolt EV charge at over 50 kW, it does it on average, like clockwork, to about 65% battery. So when you add that to the Bolt EV's real-world efficiency and range that are still on par with or even better than many of the best modern EVs that cost twice as much, it becomes passable.
If you're asking what's the point of using Superchargers, people also forget that V3 Superchargers only average 90 kW of power per stall. If a V3 site is full, but half the cars charging are Bolt EVs, it means that most EVs should still be getting their full charging power. It's a win-win for Tesla owners too, actually, so there are lots of reasons.
@@newscoulomb3705 someone made a good point, there are Teslas and other faster charging EV that now have to compete with a slow charging bolt so there's that…
@@Magicinstalls Yes, but a lot of people don't understand how the Superchargers work.
The V3 Superchargers only have 90 kW per stall, so having a slower charging EV in one stall actually increases the power available to the other stalls. In some cases, the entire site is limited to power of ~50 kW per stall, and in those cases, when the site is full, everyone charging is essentially a Bolt EV.
The only way that Bolt EVs would ever slow down a Supercharger site is if more than half the stalls were filled with Bolt EVs, which is highly unlikely.
@@newscoulomb3705 yes but do they charge slower at 50 kW? Meaning other people will have to wait for them if the charger is crowded. Plus it will take up two stalls. Just like my mustang mock E will take up two stalls, my E transit will not.
@@Magicinstalls Yes, they might charge slower than 50 kW, and relative to the battery size, their charging would be FAR slower than the Bolt EV's (e.g., the Mach-E's battery is 30% larger, so charging at 50 kW is effectively like a Bolt EV charging at 30 kW). Also, as you saw from my first stop, unlike the Mach-E, it is possible for the Bolt EV to take only one stall because of its overall length. Also, as others have pointed out, I misread the site in Red Bluff, but I easily could have only taken up one stall there as well.
they do not always work like tesla superchargers
Going to take a lot to take me away from you…..😂
Honestly, it might be worth it. Right now, these other adapters aren't sanctioned. Given how hot my adapter got just on 150 A, I don't think I would try to charge an Ultium EV using an unsactioned adapter. When it melts and burns out from heat, I want them replacing it under warranty.
Eric, get that POS GM Bolt EV out of that Tesla Supercharger 😅😊😂. I, too, have 2020 Bolt EV and a 2024 DMLRY. More DC fast charging for everyone.
Lol.😂 Just use proper etiquette and common sense. If another non-Tesla is charging, try to park right next to it. That way, only one stall is being wasted rather than two. If that rule is followed, only one, or at the most two, spots would be wasted for the entire site.
With that slow charging boat you’ll have plenty of time to have lunch. No overtime charges for you.
Yup. One of the reasons I still don't mind traveling with the Bolt EV is because I can travel 400+ miles with just a couple of short bathroom breaks and a sit-down meal stop.
@@newscoulomb3705 I had a Bolt & loved it. Battery replacement made me move on, otherwise I’d still have it.
so far my lifetime charge experience with tesla is worse than with EA.... and I dont get as high a speed on Tesla as I do on EA.... so i dunno... i like they open some places that I couldnt 'easily' get to and they are a nice back up... but seriously .. if Tesla wanted to be a public CPO as they claim they wanted to forever..... why did they not start putting v4s in the ground when they started doing v4s in EU? Since the announcement alone they still put TONS of v3s in the ground in not-usable configuration. .. and yeah... they fact their own system doesnt even support the J3400 they were pushing so hard always makes me laugh.
also 36:31 you are blocking 2 stalls... you are using 3C... but your in 3D... the stall for your spot is the one at the rear of your car.... 3C is for a backed in car next to your car to the left. It is almost impossible for any of us CCS to actually not take an extra stall.. now if 3D had been front mounted like 3C, then yes, you could be in a space to the right of 3D and not take an "extra" stall. And its possible that someone in an CCS could theoreically come and use 3D (like my car backed in might work? ... ive never had that configuration... . one time I had that stall configuration (like your first charge) it puts my car in the main road.. and I ABSOLUTELY refuse to do that.... period. It's Tesla's problem, not mine, that I have to use 2 stalls. Again they could easily just retrofit every V3 with V4 dispensers TODAY if they wanted to... but they dont.
Yes, I'm not sure why Tesla is making the automakers work with them to gain access. Magic Dock and SAE J3400 prove that Tesla could have opened their V3 Superchargers at any point, and there's absolutely no reason for them to be making the automakers jump through hoops for access.
The Chevy EV app is just plain lousy. Sometimes it just will not update the state of change. And yes, so slow.
I can't believe there is not more people talking about this. Does your delayed charging departure time setting in the app work? Mine doesn't and I've had an open case with support about it for nearly a year now. They know it doesn't work, and they don't care. I made a screen recording showing what I'm talking about, but I can't link to it here, it would cause this comment to be removed. I'm not a youtubber, but it's on my public videos.
What was the last version of the MyChevrolet App you used. Mine has improved a bit, especially in terms of charging status.
@@newscoulomb3705 Version 7.0.0 (4367)
Version 7.0.0 (4367)
I have a 22 Bolt EUV Premier, if that matters.
@@newscoulomb3705 Version 7.0.0 (4367)
If it matters, I have a 22 Bolt EUV Premier SF SC
Sorry, Eric, I would never charge on a Tesla Super Charger under any circumstances, because of one reason, Elon Musk.
I can totally appreciate that, but now that they are open and an option, I want to make sure to cover them. People also feel similarly about charging on networks owned by oil and gas companies, so a different reason, but similar reasoning. I hope that I've at least somewhat helped show the EV alternatives for people wo do not want to support Elon, directly or indirectly.
@@newscoulomb3705 Hi Eric, I do appreciate that you are showing alternative DC charging options. It was not a criticism of you showing us the Tesla option.
I think networks owned by oil and gas companies are actually a good thing, because they are perhaps getting involved in a transition to cleaner energy, unless it's just a publicity stunt to pretend they are concerned about transitioning. I don't know. But, if I charge at one, at least I am supporting a transition. Do you know who owns the Electrify America network?
@@Jeff-wb3hh Technically, Electrify America is owned by VW, but it is suppose to be operating independently. EVgo had a similar start because it was funded by a judgment against NRG following the Enron scandal, but it is now an independent subsidiary of LS Power.
I do agree with you about having gas companies help fund the transition. That's where most of the independent capital is, and it's likely to be one of the only ways to fully fund the development of EV infrastructure.
Having credit card readers built in makes a charger more complex & prone to being broken. I’m talking to you Electrify America.
What's strange is that only EA seems to have issues integrating credit card readers. In dozens of CC activations on other networks, I've never had a failure/issue due to the CC reader.
So you need a second phone just for charging, oh and three RFID cards, oh and two credit cards, oh and..... At least we got a universal plug!
Slow charger blocking hogging too long = BOLT
The way V3 Superchargers work, they only have about 90 kW available to each stall. The only time a Bolt EV charging at a Supercharger would matter is if the site is full, but if the site is full, the fact that a Bolt EV is hooked up means everyone else would be charging faster. In other words, if you're waiting in line a at a full Supercharger that has a couple of Bolt EVs plugged in, you'll access a charger sooner than you would if the site had been full with Teslas.
You'll be okay. Bolt drivers are paying customers just like everyone else. They were given permission to use the Superchargers so that's what they will do.
Still the slowest and weakest charging in the industry from a car that started in 2016 .... Considering the CEO is an Electrical Engineer that gets paid a million a month ..... GM stand for Generally Mediocre
To be fair, the Bolt EV is still to this day one of the cheapest EV options with a range that matches many more expensive EVs. Also, GM currently also offers the fastest charging EV, so it really is a spectrum. You can get it fast charging, long range, or low cost: Choose any two.
The Tesla app looks easy so I will use that when I decide to try a Tesla Supercharger. I guess most people are using A2Z or Lectron.
the tesla app fly's on my phone zero issues
Yeah, I don't know. It worked much better than this in the past. I wonder whether this was just a temporary slowdown.
GM wants 225 dollars for their adapter.
5:42 thats what she said