New Jersey turns off Tesla Superchargers from Turnpike

In a significant shift in its electric vehicle charging strategy, the New Jersey Turnpike Authority has opted to remove 64 Tesla Superchargers from the highway that links the northern and southern parts of the state. This decision, announced shortly before the transition's implementation on June 6, stems from the NJTA's decision to partner exclusively with a single third-party vendor, Applegreen Electric, which provides universal charging stations compatible with all electric vehicle brands. This change marks the end of Tesla's contract with the NJTA and highlights a broader trend towards more inclusive charging solutions for all electric vehicle users. Tesla's response to the announcement illustrates the company's proactive efforts to maintaining service in New Jersey; anticipating the potential removal of Superchargers, the company had built 116 charging stalls near the Turnpike over the last three years. This effort was aimed at ensuring Tesla owners would still have access to reliable charging options. As Tesla’s representatives indicated, the removal of their Supercharger stations could hinder the state's electric vehicle adoption goals, which target 100 percent Zero-Emission New Car Sales by 2035. They also pointed out that the Supercharger network has historically been an essential resource for EV users, considering it to be the most reliable and least congested option available. Moving forward, the NJTA plans to begin installing Applegreen Electric's universal EV chargers at six service areas along the Turnpike, namely Vince Lombardi, Woodrow Wilson, Richard Stockton, James Fenimore Cooper, Joyce Kilmer, and Walt Whitman on June 6. Furthermore, the NJTA is collaborating with Applegreen to expand its charging network to three additional service areas; the Molly Pitcher Service Area is looking to go live in July, while Clara Barton and John Fenwick Service Areas are slated to open in the fall. The NJTA's focus is on ensuring that all electric vehicle users have access to charging infrastructure, regardless of their vehicle brand. This transition raises important discussions about charging infrastructure’s role in supporting electric vehicle uptake. With an emphasis on compatibility across various electric vehicle models by implementing universal charging stations, the NJTA aims to create a more inclusive environment for EV users. However, Tesla’s concern over the removal of their specific charging stations underscores potential challenges still facing EV adoption in New Jersey. The NJTA’s initiative reflects a growing trend in the EV market towards broader accessibility that can benefit a wider customer base, while also signifying a crucial moment in the ongoing relationship between state authorities and vehicle manufacturers.