Tesla’s V4 Superchargers Launch in China, Boosting EV Charging for All Brands

Tesla has rolled out its first V4 Superchargers in China, a major step forward for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in the world’s largest EV market. Now operational in Shanghai, Chongqing, Gansu, and Zhejiang provinces, these advanced chargers promise faster charging and broader access, opening Tesla’s network to non-Tesla EVs for the first time in China, as announced by the automaker on June 30, 2025.

Faster Charging with V4 Technology

The V4 Superchargers deliver up to 500 kW of power, doubling the capacity of Tesla’s previous V3 models. This allows compatible EVs to gain approximately 168–200 miles of range in just 15 minutes. The chargers feature taller housings and longer cables, designed to accommodate a variety of EV models, including those from other brands. Tesla’s modular design keeps installation costs low, with each stall priced under $40,000, making rapid expansion feasible.

Open Network Expands Access

A key shift in Tesla’s strategy is opening its Supercharger network to non-Tesla EVs.

“The superchargers will gradually be deployed in Beijing, Guangdong province and other Chinese localities and will be open to other electric vehicle brands,” Tesla stated.

This move addresses charging anxiety—a major barrier to EV adoption—by providing reliable, high-speed charging to a wider audience. With over 2,100 Supercharger stations and 11,600 stalls in China as of June 2025, Tesla’s network is a cornerstone of the country’s EV infrastructure.

Competing in a Crowded Market

China’s EV charging landscape is fiercely competitive, with domestic giant BYD deploying 1,000 kW “Megawatt Flash Chargers” that can add 248 miles of range in five minutes. BYD aims to install 15,000 of these chargers by year-end, leveraging partnerships with local operators. While Tesla’s V4 chargers trail in peak power, their cost efficiency and extensive network give Tesla an edge. The company’s Shanghai factory has shifted to producing V4 units, supporting plans for further expansion.

Implications for EV Owners and Industry

For EV owners, Tesla’s V4 rollout means more accessible and faster charging, especially along high-traffic routes like those in Shanghai and Chongqing. The open network benefits drivers of brands like Ford or GM, who can now tap into Tesla’s reliable infrastructure. Economically, Tesla’s strategy transforms competitors into customers, boosting revenue from charging services. However, regulatory challenges, such as data export rules, could impact Tesla’s operations in China. The Tesla-BYD rivalry is also setting new standards for charging speed and network scale, pushing the industry toward greater innovation.

Blick in die Zukunft

Tesla plans to expand V4 Superchargers to Beijing, Guangdong, and beyond, though specific timelines remain undisclosed. Globally, Tesla operates over 70,000 Supercharger stalls, with rapid growth since hitting 60,000 in October 2024. As China’s EV market, which saw 11.2 million registrations in 2024, continues to grow, Tesla’s investment in open, high-speed charging positions it as a leader in the infrastructure race. For EV enthusiasts, this rollout signals a future with less range anxiety and more seamless road trips.

Fotos mit freundlicher Genehmigung von Tesla.