How to choose a charging station for Tesla Model 3 Mid Range: tips and options

The Tesla Model 3 Mid Range is an ideal option for those looking for a balance between range and cost. However, for the convenient operation of an electric vehicle, it is important to have an efficient way to replenish the charge, especially in situations where there is no access to stationary charging stations. A mobile charging station is an ideal solution for Tesla owners who want to charge their car anywhere: at home, at work, or while travelling. The right choice depends not only on the charging speed but also on the battery life. We remind you that you have the opportunity to purchase both home and commercial charging stations in our online storeand use our public charging stations ECOFACTORlocated throughout Ukraine. For easy access to charging, you can use our applicationavailable for the following platforms iOS and Android.

Factors that determine the choice of a mobile charging station for Tesla Model 3 Mid Range

The Tesla Model 3 Mid Range has its own characteristics that affect the choice of a mobile charger. To ensure stable charging and extend battery life, it is important to pay attention to the following parameters:

1. Power supply compatibility and connection types

This model supports both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) charging, allowing for a variety of charging options. The mobile charging stations work with 220V and 380V networks, which allows them to be connected to both standard household sockets and industrial power points.

When choosing, it is important to pay attention to:

• Availability of adapters for different types of sockets (European, industrial).
• Supports single-phase (3.7-7.4 kW) and three-phase (11-22 kW) connections.

2. Power of the mobile charging station

An important factor that determines the charging speed. Mobile stations with a capacity of 7 to 11 kW are optimal for Tesla Model 3 Mid Range.

• 3.7-7.4 kW - enough for slow charging at home or during overnight parking.
• 11 kW - The optimal solution that allows you to charge the battery faster without overloading the power grid.

3. Effect of frequent fast charging on the battery

Although Tesla supports direct current (DC) charging through Supercharger and CCS, frequent use of these stations can accelerate battery wear. For regular top-ups, an alternating current (AC) mobile charging station is a safer option as it provides a gradual charge without overheating the battery.

Compact and easy to transport

As a mobile station, it is important that it is lightweight and easy to transport. Compact models fit easily into the boot and have ergonomic attachments for easy transport.

• Availability of a protective case or storage cover.
• Flexible cable with optimal length (at least 5 metres).
• Intuitive operation - display or LED charging status indicators.

5. Selection depending on the use case

If you use your electric car mainly in the city, a 7.4 kW mobile station is suitable. For those travelling long distances, it is better to choose an 11 kW charging station with the ability to connect to a three-phase network.

What to look for when choosing a mobile charger for Tesla Model 3 Mid Range

The choice of a mobile charging station for Tesla Model 3 Mid Range affects not only the convenience of charging, but also the safety and efficiency of using the battery. Since a mobile device can be connected to different power grids, it is important to consider its technical characteristics and compatibility with the vehicle.

Power of the mobile charging station

One of the key parameters that determines the charging speed. The Tesla Model 3 Mid Range supports alternating current (AC) power up to 11 kW, so mobile charging stations can have different power options:

• 3.7-7.4 kW - suitable for charging from a regular household outlet. This option is convenient for travelling, but the charging process takes longer (10-12 hours for a full charge).
• 11 kW - is the optimal solution for faster charging without compromising the battery, especially when connected to a three-phase network. A full charge takes 6-8 hours.

The choice of power depends on the available power sources: if only a single-phase power supply is used, a 7.4 kW mobile station will be sufficient.

3. Type of connection to the power supply

Mobile chargers can be powered by either standard sockets (230V, 16A) or three-phase sockets (380V). It is important to ensure that the device you choose supports both types of connection or has adapters for flexibility.

• Single-phase connection (230V, 16-32A) - allows you to charge a vehicle with up to 7.4 kW of power, which is suitable for standard conditions.
• Three-phase connection (380V, 16A) - allows you to use up to 11 kW of power, which speeds up the charging process.

Before buying, you should check the power supply at home or in places where you will be charging most often.

Compatible with Tesla Model 3 Mid Range connectors

This model supports two main connectors:

• Type 2 (Mennekes) - for alternating current (AC) charging, which is used in most mobile charging stations.
• CCS2 (Combined Charging System) - for high-speed direct current (DC) charging, which is available at public charging stations.

Devices with a Type 2 connector are suitable for mobile charging, as they are compatible with Tesla and other European electric vehicles.

Functionality and additional features

Modern mobile chargers are equipped with useful features that make the charging process more convenient:

• Power control. Ability to change the current level depending on the power supply.
• Display or LED indicators. To control the charging parameters.
• Overheating and overload protection. An important safety factor.
• Adapters for different sockets. Expand connectivity when travelling.

Some models also support control via a mobile app, which allows you to monitor the charging process remotely.

Compact and weatherproof

Since a mobile station is often used on the road, its size and weight matter. Lightweight and compact models are easy to store in the trunk, and a protective cover or case will help prevent damage.

For safe use outdoors, you should choose chargers that are protected against moisture and dust (IP54, IP65 or higher).

ECOFACTOR services and products: charging without compromise

ECOFACTOR - is a company that develops charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, offering modern solutions for charging at home, on the road and at public stations. We develop chargers, maintain the network charging stations and provide digital services for the convenience of users.

Mobile charging stationECOFACTOR Type 2 7 32A (7 kW) - is the ideal solution for those looking for a flexible and reliable way to charge. It supports alternating current (AC), works on various types of power grids and is compatible with the Tesla Model 3 Mid Range. Thanks to its compact design and built-in safety features, the station ensures safe and efficient charging both at home and on the go.

ECOFACTOR also offers:

• A network of public charging stations located across the country.
• Mobile application for iOS and Android, which allows you to quickly find charging stations, check their workload and make payments.
• Interactive mapwhere you can filter stations by connector type, view their availability and charging costs.
• Accessories for electric vehicles, including covers and organisers, cables and adaptersThe equipment is equipped with a range of charging and transport options.

We create comprehensive solutions for electric vehicle owners, providing reliable service, convenient access to charging stations and high-quality equipment for comfortable charging in any conditions.

Effect of charging method on the battery life of Tesla Model 3 Mid Range

The right approach to charging the Tesla Model 3 Mid Range helps to preserve battery capacity and extend its service life. The choice between a mobile charging station and fast charging, the level of charge at which the car should be connected, and the frequency of charging - all these factors affect the state of the battery in the long term.

Is fast charging harmful to the battery?

Direct current (DC) fast chargers significantly reduce charging times, but frequent use can cause accelerated battery degradation. This is due to the increased temperature and high voltage generated during the charging process. The constant heating of the battery when using Supercharger or CCS stations causes changes in the chemical structure of the battery cells, which can subsequently reduce its capacity.

The mobile charging station, which is powered by alternating current (AC) with a power of 7-11 kW, provides gentle and stable charging without overheating. Slow charging at home or at work is the best option for daily use, while fast charging stations should only be used when necessary, for example on long journeys.

Why should I not charge the 100% battery?

Tesla's lithium-ion batteries have a limited charge-discharge cycle, and fully charging to 100% increases the load on the battery. This causes accelerated wear of the cells and a gradual decrease in battery capacity.

The recommended charge level for everyday use is 80-90%, which minimises chemical wear and tear. You should only charge the battery to 100% when you need to get the maximum range before a long journey.

How often do I need to charge the Tesla Model 3 Mid Range?

The lithium-ion technology used in Tesla's batteries has no memory effect, so frequent short charges do not damage the battery. However, constant discharging to critical levels (below 10-15%) can have a negative impact on battery life.

The optimal charging strategy is to keep the charge level within 20-80%. This ensures stable battery operation, avoids overheating and reduces the rate of battery wear.

How does temperature affect charging?

The ambient temperature is an important factor that affects the charging speed and overall health of the battery. In cold weather, the battery needs to be preheated, and in extreme heat, it may consume additional energy for cooling.

Tesla is equipped with an automatic thermal management system that maintains the optimum temperature for the battery. However, charging in extreme conditions should be avoided:

• In severe cold, it is recommended to charge the vehicle in warm rooms or garages.
• In hot weather, it is better to charge in the shade or in a ventilated area.

Charging safety: how to avoid overheating and overloading when using a mobile charging station

Charging the Tesla Model 3 Mid Range is not just about replenishing energy, but an important process that requires compliance with safety rules. The use of low-quality charging equipment, problems with the power grid, or improper connection can lead to overheating, overloading, and even damage to the battery. This is especially important when using a mobile charging station that is used in different environments - at home, at work or when travelling.

Mobile charger and battery overheating: causes and prevention

An electric vehicle can become hot during charging, especially when using a high-power charger. 

The main causes of overheating:

• Use of an uncertified or damaged charging station.
• Poor contact in the connector or cable.
• Charging at high ambient temperatures.
• Prolonged use of direct current (DC) stations, which causes additional heat load on the battery.

To avoid overheating:

• Only use certified mobile charging stations that have an overheating protection system.
• Check the cables regularly for overheating during charging.
• Charge the vehicle in the shade or in a well-ventilated area in high temperatures.
• Prefer slow alternating current (AC) charging for daily use, leaving the fast DC stations for travelling.

Tesla is equipped with a battery thermal management system that helps to control the temperature during charging, but avoiding excessive loads will keep the battery in better condition.

Power grid overload when using a mobile charging station

If the mains supply is not designed for high-power charging equipment, an overload may occur, which may trip circuit breakers or damage the wiring.

Causes of overload:

• Connecting a high-power mobile charging station to a weak power supply.
• Using several powerful devices at the same time while charging.
• The thickness of the cables does not match the capacity of the charging station, causing overheating.

How to avoid overloading:

• Before use, check the power supply to ensure that the charging station is suitable for the power supply.
• Use a separate circuit breaker (relay) for the charger.
• Choose mobile charging stations with dynamic power control, which can adjust the current level to the capacity of the network.
• Ensure that the wiring has a sufficient cross-section (minimum 6 mm² for 11 kW).

Securely connect and disconnect the mobile charging station

To avoid the risk of sparks, short circuits or damage to the contacts, it is important to follow the rules for safely connecting and disconnecting the charging cable.

What to consider:

• Connect the charging station to a power outlet first, and then connect the cable to the vehicle.
• Do not use a cable with damaged insulation or oxidised contacts.
• Disconnect the charger when the process is complete and the vehicle unlocks the connector.
• Do not pull the cable at an angle or with excessive force to avoid mechanical damage to the contacts.

Tesla has an automatic charging connector lock that prevents accidental disconnection during charging. However, physical wear and tear on the cable also plays an important role in the safety of the process, so you should regularly check the condition of the charging equipment.

Protect your mobile charger and car from power surges

Power surges can damage the charger or even the battery system of an electric vehicle. 

Power surges can occur due to:

• An unstable power grid (especially in rural areas).
• Switching on powerful electrical appliances.
• Lightning strikes and electromagnetic disturbances.

How to avoid damage due to power surges:

• Use mobile charging stations with built-in surge protection.
• Install voltage stabilisers or protection relays for the mains supply.
• Avoid charging your vehicle during a thunderstorm.

Following these recommendations will help prevent damage to the electric vehicle and ensure a stable charging process even with unstable mains voltage.

Conclusion.

The choice of a mobile charging station for the Tesla Model 3 Mid Range is an important decision that affects the convenience of charging, battery safety and overall operation of the electric vehicle. The main criteria are power, type of connection, functionality and level of protection.

For daily use, the best option is a 7-11 kW mobile station with a Type 2 connector, which allows charging from conventional sockets or three-phase networks. It provides stable charging without overheating and overloading the power grid. A smart approach to choosing a mobile charging station will make the operation of the Tesla Model 3 Mid Range more flexible, convenient and safe in any conditions.

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