Hey there, fellow EV enthusiast! Are you ready to unlock a whole new world of charging possibilities for your BMW i4? Charging your BMW i4 at a Tesla Supercharger used to be a dream, but with the evolving EV landscape and the adoption of the North American Charging Standard (NACS) by more manufacturers, it's becoming a reality. While it's important to note that direct, native compatibility for current BMW i4 models at all Tesla Superchargers isn't universally available right now, the future is bright, and with the right adapter and approach, you'll soon be able to tap into Tesla's extensive and reliable network.
Let's dive into how you can potentially charge your BMW i4 at a Tesla Supercharger, step-by-step!
Step 1: Understanding the Charging Standards
First, let's clarify some key terms. Your BMW i4 currently uses the Combined Charging System (CCS) standard, specifically CCS Combo 2 (CCS2) in most regions outside North America, and CCS Combo 1 (CCS1) in North America. Tesla, on the other hand, developed its own proprietary connector, now known as the North American Charging Standard (NACS).
The Challenge: Historically, these two standards were incompatible, meaning a BMW i4 couldn't simply plug into a Tesla Supercharger.
The Solution: The industry is moving towards broader compatibility. Many non-Tesla EVs, including future BMW models, are adopting NACS. For existing CCS-equipped vehicles like your i4, an adapter is the key.
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| How To Charge Bmw I4 At Tesla Supercharger |
Step 2: Acquiring the Right Adapter
This is the most crucial step for current BMW i4 owners. You'll need a CCS to NACS adapter.
Sub-heading: Official vs. Third-Party Adapters
Official Adapters: BMW has announced plans to provide NACS adapters for its existing CCS-equipped EVs, including the i4, potentially later in 2025. This is the ideal scenario, as an official adapter will be designed and tested specifically for your vehicle, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
Third-Party Adapters: While some third-party CCS2 to NACS adapters exist on the market, it's essential to exercise caution. Tesla's support documentation often advises against using third-party adapters for safety reasons and potential damage to your vehicle. Always prioritize official or BMW-certified solutions when they become available.
Sub-heading: What to Look For in an Adapter
If you are considering a third-party adapter (at your own risk and after careful research), ensure it meets these criteria:
DC Fast Charging Compatible: The adapter must support DC fast charging, as Tesla Superchargers are DC fast chargers.
High Power Rating: Check that the adapter can handle the power output of Superchargers (up to 250 kW or more for V3/V4 Superchargers), and is compatible with your i4's maximum DC fast-charging rate (up to 205 kW).
Safety Certifications: Look for adapters with proper safety certifications from recognized bodies.
Tip: Reread complex ideas to fully understand them.
Step 3: Locating Compatible Tesla Superchargers ️
Not all Tesla Superchargers are open to non-Tesla vehicles yet.
Sub-heading: Using the Tesla App
Download the Tesla App: If you haven't already, download the Tesla app (version 4.30.5 or later) from your smartphone's app store.
Create a Tesla Account: You'll need to create a Tesla Account within the app.
Find a Charger: In the app, select "Charge Your EV" (or tap the menu in the top-right and find "Charge Your Other EV" if you also own a Tesla). This will display a map of Supercharger sites. Crucially, the app will indicate which sites are open to non-Tesla vehicles. Look for stations marked with "All EVs" or "Open to Non-Tesla."
Check Availability: The app often shows real-time availability of charging stalls at each Supercharger site, helping you avoid queues.
Step 4: Initiating the Charging Session ⚡
Once you've arrived at a compatible Tesla Supercharger:
Sub-heading: Parking and Connection
Park Your BMW i4: Position your car so that the charging port (located on the off-side rear flank of your i4) can easily reach the Supercharger cable. Note that Tesla V4 Superchargers have longer cables (around 3 meters) which can make this easier.
Add Vehicle Details (First Time): In the Tesla app, you may need to add your vehicle details if you haven't already.
Select Payment Method: Ensure you have a valid payment method linked to your Tesla account in the app.
Connect the Adapter (If Needed): If you're using an external CCS to NACS adapter, first securely connect the NACS end of the adapter to the Supercharger cable.
Plug into Your i4: Then, plug the CCS end of the adapter (or the NACS cable directly if your i4 had a native NACS port) into your BMW i4's CCS charging port until it clicks. Each Supercharger post has a unique identifier at its base (e.g., 4A); note this down.
Select the Post in the App: In the Tesla app, select the corresponding Supercharger post number you're connected to.
Start Charging: Follow the prompts in the Tesla app to begin your charging session. The car will "talk" to the charging unit to ensure a safe connection before charging commences.
Sub-heading: Monitoring and Ending Your Session
Monitor Charging: The Tesla app will show you the charging status, current charging speed (in kW), and the cost. Your i4's display will also show charging information. Remember, your BMW i4 can accept up to 205 kW DC fast charging.
Idle Fees: Be aware of idle fees. Tesla charges a fee if your vehicle remains connected to the Supercharger after charging is complete, especially if the station is at 50% capacity or more. These fees can double when the station is at 100% capacity. Move your vehicle within five minutes of completion to avoid these fees.
End Session: When you're ready to stop charging, tap "Stop Charging" in the Tesla app.
Disconnect: Once the session has ended and you hear a click from the car, press the button on the adapter (if using one) to unlatch it, then disconnect the adapter from your car and the Supercharger. Return the Supercharger cable to its holster.
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Step 5: Understanding Charging Speeds and Costs
QuickTip: Don’t ignore the small print.
Sub-heading: Charging Speed
The BMW i4 is capable of ultra-rapid DC charging at up to 205 kW. While Tesla Superchargers (V3 and V4) can deliver up to 250 kW or even 350 kW in the future, your i4 will only charge at its maximum supported rate of 205 kW. Charging speeds can also be affected by factors like the battery's state of charge, ambient temperature, and the specific Supercharger's current load. Charging typically slows down as the battery approaches 80%.
Sub-heading: Cost
Pay-Per-Use: For non-Tesla vehicles, you'll generally pay a higher per-kWh rate compared to Tesla owners with a membership. Prices vary by location and can fluctuate, with peak hours (e.g., 4 PM to 8 PM) often incurring higher costs.
Membership: Tesla offers a Supercharging Membership in the app, which can provide a lower per-kWh rate, similar to what Tesla owners pay. If you plan to frequently use Superchargers, a membership might be cost-effective. You can join the membership through the Tesla app by going to 'Charging' and then 'Membership'.
Step 6: What to Expect and Future Outlook
Seamless Experience: The goal of integrating non-Tesla EVs into the Supercharger network is to provide a seamless, reliable, and convenient charging experience.
Wider Adoption: More and more EV manufacturers are adopting NACS, which will further simplify charging for a wider range of electric vehicles at Tesla Superchargers in the coming years. New BMW models are expected to come with NACS ports as standard from 2025.
Magic Dock: Some Tesla Supercharger stations, particularly in North America, are equipped with a "Magic Dock," which is an integrated CCS1 adapter built directly into the Supercharger cable, eliminating the need for you to carry a separate adapter. While less common in other regions, its presence streamlines the process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to get a Tesla Supercharger adapter for my BMW i4?
You'll need to wait for BMW to release its official NACS adapter for existing CCS-equipped vehicles, which is anticipated later in 2025. Avoid uncertified third-party adapters for safety and compatibility.
Tip: Note one practical point from this post.
How to find Tesla Superchargers open to non-Tesla EVs?
Download the Tesla app, create an account, and use the "Charge Your EV" feature to see a map of Supercharger sites that are open to non-Tesla vehicles.
How to pay for charging my BMW i4 at a Tesla Supercharger?
You'll need to set up a payment method in the Tesla app. Charging is initiated and managed through the app, and costs are billed directly to your linked payment method.
How to avoid idle fees at Tesla Superchargers?
Ensure you move your vehicle from the Supercharger stall within five minutes after your charging session is complete to avoid incurring idle fees, which apply when the station is 50% or more occupied.
How to know my BMW i4's maximum charging speed?
The BMW i4 supports a maximum DC fast charging speed of up to 205 kW. It also has an 11 kW AC on-board charger for slower charging.
How to join the Tesla Supercharging Membership?
QuickTip: Slow down if the pace feels too fast.
Open the Tesla app, go to the 'Charging' section, then 'Membership', and tap 'Join Now' to sign up for a membership that offers lower per-kWh rates.
How to identify a V4 Tesla Supercharger?
V4 Superchargers are generally taller and have longer cables (around 3 meters) compared to V3 Superchargers. Some V4 stations also feature contactless payment terminals.
How to disconnect my BMW i4 from a Tesla Supercharger?
After ending the session in the Tesla app, wait for the click sound, then press the button on top of the adapter (if using one) to unlatch it, and disconnect it from your car and the Supercharger cable.
How to check the current pricing for Supercharging my i4?
The Tesla app will display the current per-kWh pricing for the Supercharger station you select before you begin charging. Prices can vary by location and time of day.
How to ensure a safe charging experience for my BMW i4 at a Supercharger?
Always use an officially supported or BMW-certified adapter when it becomes available. Ensure the charging cable is fully inserted, and follow the instructions in the Tesla app to initiate and end your session.
You can find a video on how to charge a non-Tesla EV at a Supercharger here:
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