How Does the Tesla Magic Dock Work?
Tesla recently opened its Supercharger Network to non-Tesla EVs, but it requires an adaptor. This Tesla Magic Dock adapter allows non-Tesla electric vehicles to charge at its expansive Supercharger Network. Find out where the Tesla Magic Dock locations are already up and running and what to expect if you need one.
What is the Tesla Magic Dock?
The White House announced that Tesla would add new Supercharger equipment so non-Tesla EVs could charge up on its network. One of the agreements with the government was that Tesla would have 10% of its stalls equipped with a way for Combined Charging System (CCS) equipped electric cars to charge. The automaker announced its Magic Dock would have the CCS adaptor for those other EVs. Tesla’s Superchargers would still have the same cord for its own branded vehicles.
One of the issues so far is that few Tesla Magic Dock chargers are available yet. Drivers can check the Tesla website and click “Superchargers Open to Non-Tesla” to find locations. Right now, these are all in New York and California.
The website gives all pertinent information for the Superchargers open to non-Tesla drivers. The Fredonia, New York charging station is at a Denny’s and has 12 Superchargers. These are available 24/7 and charge up to 250kW. It also explicitly notes: “This Supercharger is open to Tesla and Non-Tesla vehicles with CCS compatibility.”
How does Tesla Magic Dock work?
According to Forbes, the Tesla Magic Dock works by having a standard Tesla connector dock with the Tesla-to-CCS adapter. This is called the Magic Dock. It unlocks and starts charging like any other Tesla Supercharger through the app. A non-Tesla vehicle will use a CCS plug, while the Tesla drivers will use the standard plug.
One issue presented with the first few Magic Dock chargers is the charging cable length. Some drivers cannot reach the plug, depending on where it is on the vehicle. For instance, some EVs have the plug in the middle on the passenger side, which means parking in an adjacent stall to reach.
When the Tesla team tested charging a Rivian using the Magic Dock, it was easier to park sideways. The Audi e-Tron posed the most significant issue since its port is next to the driver’s door. Some Audi drivers report having problems at regular CCS-only stations for the same reason.
The Tesla Supercharger Network is only getting bigger
Since only a few Tesla Magic Dock stations are open, there is plenty of work to be done. Opening the expansive Tesla Supercharger Network is a big hurdle that will help with more widespread EV adoption. Currently, the network has more than 40,000 global Superchargers and 40,000 or more wall connectors at destination charging sites.
Many other companies are opening chargers, like Cracker Barrel Old Country Stores and restaurants, 7-Eleven and its new 7-Charge network, and even the popular Buc-ee’s gas stations. Buc-ee’s recently partnered with Tesla to add Superchargers to its conveniently located stores nationwide. These are currently in six states and growing.
While the Tesla Magic Dock might not be available in many locations, construction is ongoing and should ramp up in the next few months. Keep an eye out for which state gets updated charging stations next.
