Tesla’s Cybertruck is envisioned as a game-changer in the electric vehicle (EV) domain, not least due to its anticipated charging capabilities, thanks to its modern 800V powertrain architecture. This advancement suggests the promise of ultra-fast charging times similar to those touted by Chinese EVs on equally advanced platforms—charging that is accomplished in under 20 minutes.
Expectations were further fueled by comments from Tesla’s engineering chief, Lars Moravy, indicating the Cybertruck’s ability to reach an 80% charge in less than 20 minutes on the right chargers. However, real-world tests paint a different picture of the Cybertruck’s charging performance.
Recent speed tests using the most available Tesla V3 Superchargers, which provide a maximum output of 250kW, revealed that it takes the Cybertruck an hour and a half to fully charge its 4680 battery pack. This pace is considerably slower than its peers, despite the truck’s advanced technology allowing for simultaneous charging of divided virtual battery units—a technique similar to what’s seen in the fast-charging smartphone market.
During these tests, the Cybertruck started charging at the peak available output but quickly tapered off within five minutes. A 50% charge wasn’t even achieved by the 20-minute mark, with the input power reduced to 131kW. Further down the test, after 30 minutes, the truck had only reached a 60% charge, with the rate dropping below 100kW. When comparing it to vehicles like the Hyundai Ioniq which utilizes the 800V architecture and charges at a significantly faster rate, the Cybertruck’s result can undoubtedly be tagged as disappointing.
The slow charging curve may be attributed to the 4680 battery’s chemistry or power management system. Interestingly, this is not unique to the Cybertruck, as the first Texas-made Model Y vehicles sporting the 4680 battery packs also showed similar charging behavior.
Despite these setbacks, Tesla continues to innovate, releasing a second generation of their 4680 battery, known as the Cybercell, which boasts a 15% increase in energy density. This suggests advancements in either the chemistry or the production process. Nevertheless, Tesla still faces the challenge of calibrating their battery management systems to accommodate faster charging without compromising battery health or longevity.
In a move to address the charging curve, Tesla has announced plans to release an over-the-air (OTA) update purporting to add 154 miles of range in just 15 minutes, hinting at improvements based on real-world charging data. This forthcoming update could potentially alter the Cybertruck’s charging profile significantly.
Buyers and enthusiasts interested in home charging solutions might consider the 80A Tesla Gen 2 Wall Connector with a 24′ cable, which is available for purchase.
In summary, while the Cybertruck promises technological advancements and revolutionary features, its actual charging performance as of the latest observations lags behind expectations and industry standards set by other 800V infrastructure-based EVs. Tesla’s commitment to ongoing improvements through OTA updates and battery innovation offers hope for enhancement of the Cybertruck’s charging efficiency. It reflects a process of iterative development that is common in cutting-edge technology sectors and showcases Tesla’s ability to respond to real-world data with iterative improvements.
