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Tesla is pushing out a firmware update to Model 3 cars in Europe this weekend that will see the ability to recharge at even faster rates. It will apply to all Model 3 with the Long Range battery and enable charge rates up to 200kW (where possible), or as Tesla prefers to measure it, at 1,350 kilometres per hour. As a result, Tesla claims that this update makes the Model 3 the fastest-charging electric car in the world.
All European-spec Tesla Model 3 cars ship from the factory with CCS-type charging ports, which enable them to use the broader range of public charge points across the continent. The Tesla Supercharger network has also been updated to now carry CCS type cables ensuring maximum compatibility.
Commenting on the rollout of the firmware update, Tesla said: "As we work towards the introduction of V3 Supercharging in Europe, we're releasing an early software update to European Model 3 Long Range customers that will allow them to charge at hundreds of third party fast-charging stations - up to 200kW. When our own V3 Supercharger technology is introduced, these cars will be able to charge even faster at 250kW peak charge rates. Tesla vehicles benefit from the most extensive charging network in the world by having access to Tesla chargers like our Supercharger network, as well as publicly-available EV charging networks."
At present in Ireland the fastest public chargers are the newly-opened Ionity station located in Cashel on the M7 motorway, and another is planned for Gorey. These can provide charging rates at up to 150kW, but elsewhere in Europe there are other providers offering up to 350kW charging rates.
Tesla is also adding to its own Supercharger Network in Ireland, which currently has locations at Birdhill in Tipperary, Castlebellingham in Louth and Ballacolla in Laois. The company plans to add Superchargers in Sandyford, Cork, Lisburn, Enfield, and Athenry.