Tesla’s announcement that it’s to open up the charging network to all electric car users could have a dramatic effect on public acceptance of EVs, according to a new Electrifying.com survey.

In a survey of just under 1,500 people, 81% said they would be more likely to buy an electric car if Tesla’s network of superchargers was open to all electric car owners in the UK.

This follows the news that Tesla has opened some of its network as a pilot scheme, in a move that will see more drivers being able to benefit from its reliable and fast chargers. Non-Tesla models will have access to selected sites across the country for the first time. All the Superchargers are between 120 and 250kW and can add up to 60 miles of range in less than five minutes.

Known for its reliability, Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network is seen as a major selling point for the brand. But some could see the move as a disadvantage for Tesla drivers who value the exclusivity and relative ease of being able to charge quickly while on the go. 

At the same time, trust in the Tesla brand is driving consumers to think seriously about making the switch to electric, with many saying their charging anxiety would be calmed if the Tesla Supercharger network were to open.

Founder and CEO of Electrifying.com Ginny Buckley said:“There will be a large number of electric car drivers who will be overjoyed that they will be able to use the Supercharger network at last. But it’s certain to be controversial among the fast-growing ranks of Tesla owners. The reliable, quick and plentiful chargers have been a major selling point but there are already complaints that the Superchargers are getting busier as sales of its cars have increased rapidly. 

“If Tesla were to use the money generated from charging to fund an expansion of the network, this would help to alleviate charging anxiety that we know so many consumers have, whilst also enabling the Supercharger network to expand quickly.”

Tesla has instantly created the biggest 150kW+ fast-charging network in the country