Tesla Opens Supercharger Network to Non-Tesla EVs in Canada

In a significant development for Canada’s electric vehicle (EV) industry, Tesla has announced plans to open up its Supercharger network to other brands’ EVs in the country. Following the government’s revelation, Tesla will initiate this effort with a pilot route between Ottawa, the capital city, and Sudbury. The company aims to have 750 accessible Supercharger stations in operation by the end of 2025, with a minimum of 350 of these being high-speed 250kW Superchargers. The focus on long-distance travel is crucial, as the open charger route will encompass a vast stretch of the Trans-Canada Highway, connecting Ottawa to Calgary.

This announcement coincides with the Canadian government’s efforts to enhance the accessibility of EV chargers across the nation. Collaborating with various partners, the government plans to install nearly 3,000 EV chargers in multi-use residential buildings, offices, public places, and fleets. Of these, 1,908 will be Level 2 chargers, while 100 will be Level 3 chargers. Furthermore, funding is allocated to five ongoing projects, with a goal of installing up to 1,328 EV chargers.

The Canadian market’s embrace of EVs has gained momentum recently, with Tesla’s decision coming on the heels of its commitment to provide access to 12,000 North American Superchargers for Ford EV drivers starting in spring 2024. In a further move toward collaboration, Ford has also decided to adopt Tesla’s open-source charge port standard for its 2025 model year cars. These efforts by Tesla and Ford contribute to the broader goal of expanding Supercharger accessibility beyond the Tesla vehicle ecosystem in both the United States and Europe. The move towards interoperability may alleviate concerns about inconsistent charger quality for prospective non-Tesla EV owners.

While Canada may not yet be considered a major hub for EVs like the United States or China, it is taking significant steps to establish itself as a cornerstone of the industry. Volkswagen has recently announced plans to construct its first North American EV battery plant in southern Ontario. Additionally, negotiations are underway for a Stellantis EV battery plant in the country, which, if successful, could further bolster Canada’s influence in the EV sector. The existing automotive manufacturing base in Canada also positions the nation to play a pivotal role in the future of the industry. Considering its commitment to ban the sale of combustion engine passenger cars by 2035, Canada recognizes the necessity of fostering demand for EVs well in advance.

As Tesla extends access to its Supercharger network in Canada, along with the government’s efforts to enhance EV charging infrastructure, the country demonstrates its determination to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles. These developments contribute to the establishment of a robust and accessible charging network, furthering the growth of the EV industry and reinforcing Canada’s position as an emerging player in the global market.