Does Tesla Install Charging Stations for Free?
3 Answers
According to Tesla's official statement, each Tesla vehicle comes with a complimentary home charging station, allowing owners to charge their Tesla at home anytime. Below are the relevant details: Home Charging Station Installation Service: After a customer orders a vehicle, Tesla staff will contact the owner to gather general information about the installation location. Tesla's partnered service providers will then conduct an on-site survey of the charging environment and provide an accurate installation quote. Once the survey is successful, Tesla will ship a home charging station, and the service provider will schedule a suitable time for on-site installation with the owner. Installation Costs Vary by Region: In some areas, there are direct subsidies, meaning all materials and installation fees are covered at no cost. However, in certain regions, installing a Tesla charging station may incur costs for cables, charging boxes, and labor fees, although the electric meter is provided free of charge.
When I first got my Model Y, I also thought the charging station was free. But the salesperson said the basic installation costs 4,800, and if the cable exceeds 40 meters, there's an additional charge. Tesla's home charger originally costs 7,200, and they often run promotions where they give the charger for free with a new car, but the installation fee isn't covered. I did some research myself—applying for a meter from State Grid and getting the property management's approval is enough for installation, but third-party companies actually offer cheaper quotes. If the underground garage in your community doesn't have pre-installed electrical conduits, the wiring cost could exceed 10,000. I recommend checking out owner forums frequently—there are group-buying communities that can save you a thousand or two. However, the convenience of scheduling charging via the mobile app with the original charger is unbeatable, plus you can remotely monitor the charging status.
Tesla charging station pricing consists of three parts: equipment costs 7,200 RMB, installation fee starting at 4,800 RMB, and extra-long cables charged separately. New car promotions occasionally offer free charging stations but not installation, but after the policy change in March this year, even the stations are no longer included. When I installed mine, I encountered two issues: the property management required a 5,000 RMB deposit, and the power bureau's meter was 60 meters away from the parking spot, costing an extra 4,000+ RMB just for wiring. Third-party 40kW stations sell for only 3,000 RMB, but they lack OTA upgrade capability. The biggest advantage of the original station is compatibility, charging 15% faster than generic brands in low winter temperatures. Recently, I saw some owners in the group buying second-hand stations—remember to get the invoice to register for warranty.
