Tesla’s once-profitable Supercharger network faces uncertainty after Musk eliminates entire team

Tesla’s Supercharger network, once hailed as the undisputed king of EV fast charging, is now facing uncertainty after CEO Elon Musk unexpectedly axed the entire division in April. The division, responsible for over 25,000 charging ports in the U.S. and 50,000 worldwide, was profitable last year but fell victim to Musk’s cost-cutting measures.

The layoffs, which affected around 500 employees, have left industry watchers and former Tesla employees questioning the future of the Supercharger network. Despite Musk’s recent announcement of a $500 million investment in expanding and upgrading the network, the absence of a dedicated team to oversee the work raises concerns about the network’s ability to meet its targets.

The Supercharger network, known for its reliability and fast charging speeds, has been a game-changer in alleviating range anxiety for EV owners. However, with the recent layoffs disrupting ongoing construction and expansion plans, the network’s future is uncertain.

Tesla’s decision to open up the Supercharger network to other automakers in recent years was seen as a strategic move to increase accessibility and adoption of electric vehicles. Major automakers like Ford, GM, and Volvo have adopted Tesla’s plug design, allowing their customers to access Superchargers across the U.S. and Canada.

As Tesla navigates this turbulent period, the future of the Supercharger network remains uncertain. With ongoing construction projects in limbo and a lack of oversight, the network’s once-promising trajectory may be at a crossroads. Only time will tell how Tesla’s bold decision to restructure its Supercharger division will impact the EV charging landscape.