Tesla Opens Super Charging Station at JFK Airport

Tesla Motors Thursday opened a new “Supercharger” station at JFK International Airport in Queens, NY, adding to its 80-plus charging stations that now crisscross the country providing half a battery charge in as little as 20 minutes. The JFK station offers four charging stalls available for Model S owners to use free-of-charge, 24/7.

The chargers provide 120 kilowatts of power and stations are continually being placed in strategic geographic areas that allow drivers to travel city-to-city with quick stops to replenish batteries along their route.  Supercharging is included in every Model S with an 85 kwh battery, and can be added to any 60 kwh Model S for $2,000, or $2,500 if enabled.

According to Tesla, the Model S can go 170 miles per 30-minute charge, and stations are located near amenities such as roadside diners, cafes and shopping centers.

The California-based company says Superchargers represent the most advanced charging technology in the world, capable of charging Model S 16 times faster than most public charging stations. The chargers works by delivering DC power directly to the battery using special cables that bypass onboard charging equipment.

Some stations use canopies covered with solar panels to offset energy use and provide shade. Over the next few years, Tesla plans to cover more stations in sunny locales with solar canopies as part of its commitment to the environment.

— Tom Halligan, East Coast Editor