Ever found yourself driving your sleek Tesla, the battery indicator inching closer to empty, and the nearest Supercharger is just too far? Don't fret! Public charging networks like BP Pulse are becoming increasingly accessible, and with a few simple steps, you can confidently top up your Tesla, even if it's not a native BP Pulse charger. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Prepare for Your Charge – Get Equipped and Informed!
Welcome, fellow Tesla driver! Before you even think about pulling up to a BP Pulse station, let's make sure you're ready for a smooth charging experience.
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| How To Charge Tesla At Bp Pulse |
Understanding Tesla's Connectors
Historically, Teslas used their proprietary NACS (North American Charging Standard) connector. However, with the industry moving towards standardization, newer Teslas and many existing ones are CCS compatible. BP Pulse stations primarily offer CCS (Combined Charging System) and sometimes Type 2 (AC charging) connectors.
For DC Fast Charging (Rapid/Ultra-Rapid): Your Tesla likely has a CCS inlet. Most BP Pulse rapid and ultra-rapid chargers will have tethered CCS cables that you can directly plug in.
For AC Charging (Slow/Fast): Your Tesla uses a Type 2 inlet. BP Pulse AC chargers will also have Type 2 connectors. If your Tesla came with a J1772 adapter, you can use this for Level 2 public AC charging stations that have J1772 connectors (though BP Pulse often has Type 2 directly).
Download the BP Pulse App
This is your key to seamless charging. Download the bp pulse app from your smartphone's app store (Apple App Store or Google Play Store).
Set Up Your Payment Method
Once you have the app, add a valid payment method. This could be a credit card, debit card, or link to a mobile payment service. Some BP Pulse stations also support contactless payment directly at the charger. You can also opt for a BP Pulse charge card (RFID card) if you plan to use the network frequently, which often comes with membership benefits and cheaper rates.
Step 2: Locate a BP Pulse Charger
Now that you're prepared, let's find a charger!
Using the BP Pulse App
QuickTip: Reading twice makes retention stronger.
The BP Pulse app has a built-in map that displays available charging points, their connector types, and real-time status (in use, available, or out of order). This is crucial for planning your charge.
Open the app and zoom in on your desired location or search for nearby chargers.
Filter by connector type if needed to ensure compatibility with your Tesla (CCS for rapid, Type 2 for AC).
Check the availability status before heading out.
Alternative Navigation Apps
You can also use other popular EV charging maps like Zap-Map or PlugShare, which often integrate BP Pulse locations and provide similar information.
Step 3: Arriving at the Charger
You've arrived! Now for the actual connection.
Parking and Assessing the Charger
Park your Tesla safely and ensure the charging cable can comfortably reach your car's charging port (typically on the near-side rear flank).
Identify the correct connector on the BP Pulse unit. For rapid charging, you'll be looking for a CCS connector. For AC charging, it'll be a Type 2.
Connecting Your Tesla
Open your Tesla's charging port.
Pick up the appropriate charging cable from the BP Pulse unit.
Firmly plug the connector into your Tesla's charging port. You should hear a click, and your Tesla's charging port light will usually turn green (or blue, depending on the status) to indicate a successful connection.
Step 4: Initiating the Charging Session ✅
With your Tesla plugged in, it's time to start the flow of electrons!
Using the BP Pulse App (Most Common Method)
Open the BP Pulse app and select the specific charging point you're at. Most chargers will have a unique ID number displayed on them to help you select the correct one in the app.
Choose your preferred socket within the app if the charger has multiple options.
Tap 'Start Charging' (or similar prompt) in the app.
Confirm your payment method if prompted.
Tip: Stop when confused — clarity comes with patience.
Using a BP Pulse Charge Card (RFID)
If the charger display shows a welcome screen, select your connector type. If it shows payment options, skip to step 3.
Select 'RFID payment' from the payment options.
Tap your BP Pulse charge card on the RFID reader. This is usually located on the front of the charger.
Once payment is successful, the screen will confirm you can start charging.
Contactless Payment
Many newer BP Pulse chargers offer direct contactless payment.
Select your connector type on the charger screen.
Tap your contactless bank card or mobile wallet (Apple Pay, Google Pay) on the contactless reader.
Follow the on-screen prompts to begin.
Monitoring Your Charge
The charger screen and your BP Pulse app will display your active charging session, showing details like:
Current charge rate (kW)
Amount of energy delivered (kWh)
Estimated cost
Time elapsed
Your Tesla's screen will also show charging progress and estimated time to completion.
Step 5: Ending Your Charging Session
When you've charged enough, it's time to disconnect.
Stopping the Charge
On the BP Pulse charger screen, select 'Stop' or 'Disconnect' from your active session.
Alternatively, you can stop the charge within the BP Pulse app by selecting your active session and tapping 'Stop Charging'.
In some cases, you might need to tap your BP Pulse card on the RFID reader again to end the session.
Your Tesla also has options to stop charging from its infotainment screen or by unlocking the vehicle.
Disconnecting the Cable
Once the charging session has officially ended on the charger screen and/or app, remove the charging cable from your Tesla. The charging port light should change, indicating it's safe to remove.
Return the charging cable neatly to its holster on the BP Pulse unit.
Payment and Receipt
QuickTip: Focus more on the ‘how’ than the ‘what’.
Your payment will be processed automatically based on your chosen method.
You'll typically receive a receipt via email or it will be available in your BP Pulse app.
Troubleshooting Common Issues ️
Charger Not Activating: Double-check your app or RFID card. Ensure your Tesla is fully plugged in. Try restarting the session in the app or by tapping your card again.
Payment Issues: Verify your payment method in the app. Sometimes a pre-authorization fee (e.g., £45 or £50) might be applied, so ensure you have sufficient funds.
Charger Fault: If the charger displays an error or doesn't respond, try another available charger at the same location.
Cable Stuck: Ensure the charging session has ended. Try locking and unlocking your Tesla. Your Tesla also has an emergency cable release feature (consult your owner's manual).
Contact Support: For any persistent issues, contact BP Pulse customer service immediately. Their 24/7 support line is usually displayed on the charger or available in the app.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to find BP Pulse chargers compatible with Tesla?
You can use the BP Pulse app or other EV charging map apps like Zap-Map and PlugShare. Filter by CCS for rapid charging or Type 2 for AC charging, as these are the common connectors for Teslas at non-Tesla stations.
How to know if my Tesla needs an adapter for BP Pulse?
If your Tesla has a CCS inlet, you won't need an adapter for BP Pulse rapid chargers that offer CCS. For older Teslas or AC charging at stations with J1772 connectors, you might need the SAE J1772 Charging Adapter that usually comes with your Tesla.
How to pay for charging at BP Pulse with a Tesla?
You can pay via the BP Pulse app with a registered payment method, a BP Pulse charge card (RFID), or directly with a contactless bank card/mobile wallet at equipped chargers.
How to get a better price for BP Pulse charging?
Consider signing up for a BP Pulse membership with an RFID card. Members often get discounted rates compared to pay-as-you-go or contactless payments.
QuickTip: Read in order — context builds meaning.
How to start a charging session with the BP Pulse app?
Plug in your Tesla, open the BP Pulse app, select the charger ID, choose your socket, and tap 'Start Charging'.
How to stop a charging session at BP Pulse?
You can stop the session on the charger screen, via the BP Pulse app, or by tapping your BP Pulse charge card again if prompted.
How to troubleshoot if a BP Pulse charger isn't working for my Tesla?
First, ensure your Tesla is correctly plugged in. Try restarting the session in the app or re-tapping your card. If issues persist, try another charger or contact BP Pulse customer support.
How to know my Tesla's charging speed at BP Pulse?
The charging speed will be displayed on the BP Pulse charger screen, in the BP Pulse app, and on your Tesla's infotainment screen. Rapid chargers will typically deliver 50kW, 150kW, or even higher, depending on the charger and your Tesla's battery state of charge.
How to avoid common charging issues at public stations?
Always ensure a firm connection between the cable and your car. Have the charging app downloaded and payment set up before you arrive. Check the charger's status in the app before driving to it.
How to prepare my Tesla for charging in extreme weather?
In very cold weather, your Tesla's battery may need to precondition to accept faster charge rates. Your car will often do this automatically if you set a Supercharger or a compatible fast charger as your destination in your Tesla's navigation.
Find out how to charge your EV using the BP Pulse app:
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