The once envisioned "Charger Snake" from Tesla caused a stir years ago: A robotic arm that would connect to the charging port on its own and thus charge e-cars automatically. It has now been officially confirmed that Tesla is no longer pursuing this approach. Instead, the topic of Tesla wireless charging is coming into focus - a wireless charging option that will be compatible with the upcoming V4 Superchargers. This could prove to be a ground-breaking solution, especially for future autonomous vehicles.
Why the Charger Snake is dead
Tesla's engineers, especially the VP of Engineering, agreed: for most drivers, manually plugging into the Superchargers is part of their normal routine anyway. Until now, many have left the vehicle during the charging process to stretch their legs or eat something. A cost-intensive robotic arm would be difficult to maintain, especially in adverse weather conditions such as snow or ice. From the point of view of the Tesla-engineers, this effort was disproportionate to the actual benefit.
On the way to an autonomous future
In the long term, Teslas will drive around autonomously. Of course, this requires a charging option that no longer requires human intervention. This is where Tesla with a wireless charging solution two birds with one stone:
- Less maintenanceNo moving parts exposed to ice, snow or general wear and tear.
- Comfort & safetyWireless charging can make operation smoother, especially in areas where vehicles are traveling autonomously without passengers.
V4 Supercharger: Ready for wireless?
The upcoming V4 Supercharger-generation could lay the foundation for Tesla's wireless charging plans. It is already known that the installation costs for Superchargers are falling with each version. A wireless charging station - if it is modular - should be even cheaper to integrate than a completely new cable infrastructure.
This would allow individual charging points in large stations to be upgraded without having to rebuild the entire area. Tesla-Meanwhile, drivers could relax in the car, watch movies or sleep while the vehicle draws contactless power.
Outlook for Europe
What is already in the starting blocks in the USA is still primarily an exciting future scenario for us in Europe. Nevertheless, there is great interest in convenient and efficient charging solutions here too. Those who already Tesla will possibly be able to charge wirelessly in the future - an option that is particularly attractive for robotaxi services or fully autonomous vehicles.
Conclusion
The abandonment of the Charger Snake has clearly sharpened Tesla's focus: Tesla Wireless Charging is set to shape the future of charging infrastructure by enabling fully autonomous vehicles to charge conveniently without human intervention. With the new V4 Superchargers Tesla takes a further step towards combining efficiency, cost reduction and user-friendliness. The robotaxi era sends its regards - and wireless energy transmission could soon be a natural part of the Tesla-world.
Did you like our article?
If you’re already more proud Tesla-Driver are or should be in a timely manner, visit our online shop Shop4Tesla and secure 10% Discount on all products with the discount code: NEWS4TESLA.In our extensive range you will find a variety of high-quality Tesla-Accessories for every model Discover exciting innovations and accessories that will Tesla-Make the experience even better - www.shop4tesla.com.
