FYI: In a groundbreaking development, Tesla has partnered with Steak ‘n Shake to expand its Supercharger network to over 100 locations, enhancing convenience for EV owners across the U.S.
Tesla has announced a strategic alliance with restaurant chain Steak ‘n Shake to install over 100 Supercharger stations at its locations throughout the United States. This initiative came to fruition after a dialogue between Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk and Steak ‘n Shake’s social media presence on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. The collaboration signifies a significant expansion of Tesla’s charging infrastructure, aiming to integrate EV charging facilities with popular dining spots across the country.
Supercharging Ahead: Partnership Unveiled
Steak ‘n Shake has taken proactive steps by proposing the installation of more than 100 Supercharger stations at its restaurants. Tesla has already made progress, with agreements secured for six locations and more than 20 sites currently undergoing design review. In a tweet, Tesla’s charging account prompted Steak ‘n Shake to finalize layout plans, to which the latter responded enthusiastically, granting approval for all its sites and proposing a partnership for 100-plus locations.
Driving Innovation: Tesla’s Expanding Supercharger Network
Apart from this partnership, Tesla is on the verge of unveiling its visionary Supercharger diner and drive-in movie theater in Los Angeles. This concept originated in 2018 and broke ground in September 2023. While the official opening date remains under wraps, Tesla’s preparations, including a mobile app for the site, suggest its unveiling is imminent.
Furthermore, Tesla is set to introduce its next-generation V4 Supercharger cabinets this year, emphasizing speed and efficiency. These units promise up to 500kW charging speeds for compatible vehicles, marking a breakthrough in fast-charging technology. Surprisingly, the installation costs for these cutting-edge units remain under $40,000 per stall.
Efficient Deployment: Prefabricated Superchargers
To expedite deployment, Tesla’s prefabricated Supercharger units, manufactured in groups of four at its Gigafactory in Buffalo, New York, underscore the company’s focus on efficiency and cost reduction. Max de Zegher, Tesla’s Director of Charging for North America, highlights that these prefabricated units streamline production and facilitate quicker rollout.
Conclusion: A Vision for Endless Range and Comfort
This partnership between Tesla and Steak ‘n Shake signifies a transformative step in expanding the accessibility of EV charging. By merging the convenience of Tesla’s Supercharger network with the ubiquitous presence of fast-food restaurants, the collaboration aims to enhance the electric vehicle ownership experience. With innovative initiatives and expanding infrastructure, Tesla continues to revolutionize how and where EV owners charge their vehicles.
For more insights and updates, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi or follow us on Twitter @automotivefyi.
William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
