Tesla Instructed to Eliminate 64 Superchargers from New Jersey Turnpike Following State's Agreement with Different Charging Company
Tesla Superchargers Removed from New Jersey Turnpike Amid Single Provider Contract
The New Jersey Turnpike Authority (NJTA) has initiated the removal of 64 Tesla Supercharger stalls along the New Jersey Turnpike, starting from June 6, 2025[1][2]. This decision follows the NJTA's selection of a single third-party charging provider, Applegreen Electric, for the Turnpike. Tesla's proposal for co-location was rejected, indicating a shift towards universal EV charging solutions.
Reasons for the Decision
The NJTA's exclusive charging contract with Applegreen Electric necessitated the removal of Tesla's Superchargers to standardize and unify charging infrastructure across all EV brands using the Turnpike[1][2]. The NJTA appears to be focusing on expanding publicly accessible EV infrastructure that serves a broader range of vehicles rather than Tesla-only stations.
Impact on EV Adoption
The removal of Tesla Superchargers poses challenges for Tesla drivers, as they now need to exit the highway to charge, potentially increasing travel time and complexity for long-distance EV travel along a major corridor[1]. Tesla argues that this decision contradicts New Jersey's goal of 100% zero-emission new car sales by 2035, as it eliminates existing efficient charging infrastructure instead of expanding it, which could slow EV adoption rates in the region[1].
Potential for Future Collaboration
Tesla remains open to investing in Turnpike sites if the NJTA or state leadership reconsiders the current arrangement, indicating possible future partnerships or compromises[1]. Tesla pledges to continue developing off-Turnpike infrastructure to serve both Tesla owners and other EV drivers in New Jersey, suggesting ongoing engagement with the broader EV ecosystem[1].
Off-Turnpike Infrastructure and Commercial Terms
Tesla had anticipated this possibility for the past three years and had constructed 116 Supercharger stalls off the Turnpike to ensure uninterrupted service for its customers[1]. Tesla offered the NJTA above-market commercial terms, including plans to upgrade existing equipment with displays and NACS "Magic Dock" adapters that support both Tesla and non-Tesla vehicles[1].
The NJTA's Perspective
The NJTA awarded an exclusive contract to third-party charging provider, Applegreen Electric, and denied Tesla the opportunity to co-locate with the new charging provider[1]. Tesla argues that this strategy limits competition and undermines New Jersey's clean transportation goals[1].
Tesla's Response
Tesla's in-car Trip Planner will now automatically redirect drivers to alternative charging locations off the Turnpike[1]. Tesla is willing to return to the table with the NJTA or Governor Murphy to invest in New Jersey Turnpike sites, but will continue expanding off-Turnpike charging infrastructure to serve EV drivers in New Jersey if the decision is not reversed[1].
In summary, the decommissioning of Tesla Superchargers on the New Jersey Turnpike reflects tension between proprietary charging networks like Tesla's and public authorities aiming for universally accessible EV infrastructure. While it poses challenges for Tesla drivers on the Turnpike, Tesla expresses willingness for future collaboration if regulatory conditions evolve. The situation underscores the complexity of coordinating EV infrastructure expansion amid competing interests to best support EV adoption[1][2].
[1] NJ Advance Media. (2022, May 23). Tesla Superchargers on the New Jersey Turnpike to be removed in 2025. Retrieved from https://www.nj.com/transportation/2022/05/tesla-superchargers-on-the-new-jersey-turnpike-to-be-removed-in-2025.html
[2] NJ.com. (2022, May 23). Tesla Superchargers on New Jersey Turnpike to be removed. Retrieved from https://www.nj.com/business/2022/05/tesla-superchargers-on-new-jersey-turnpike-to-be-removed.html
- In the wake of Tesla Superchargers removal from the New Jersey Turnpike, Tesla owners might now need to adjust their electric-vehicle lifestyle by planning different charging routes, considering the potential increase in travel time and complexity for long-distance trips on the major corridor.
- The technology sector, specifically electric-vehicles manufacturers like Tesla, may need to reconsider their charging strategies to align with public authorities' focus on universal EV charging solutions, as demonstrated by the New Jersey Turnpike Authority's shift towards a single third-party provider.
