Tesla's Supercharger Expansion Hits Speed Bump Amidst Layoffs and Leadership Changes

In recent months, the expansion of Tesla’s Supercharger network has noticeably slowed following a significant April layoff that substantially reduced the team responsible for deploying new electric vehicle charging stations. Data from EVAdoption reveals a 28% decline in newly opened Supercharger interfaces between May and August compared to the same period last year. Additionally, for the first eight months of the year, the number declined by 11% compared to 2023.

This deceleration comes despite Tesla receiving millions in government funding aimed at bolstering electric vehicle infrastructure in states like Maryland and Arizona. However, the internal challenges post-layoff have overshadowed these financial inflows, complicating operational momentum and slowing progress.

The Supercharger network remains a key selling point for Tesla vehicles, renowned for its robust and reliable service. Yet, the abrupt removal of the entire team, including its head Rebecca Tinucci, disrupted ongoing projects and left potential site partners bewildered.

Since the layoff, Tesla has been working to rebuild the team, albeit with fewer members, amid pressure to expand its network to accommodate not only Tesla drivers but also those from other automakers like Ford and Rivian, who have started using Tesla’s charging technology.

CEO Elon Musk has reassured customers of Tesla’s continued commitment to expanding the service, despite a slowdown in the pace of new installations. The company plans to invest over $500 million this year in network improvements, aiming to add thousands of new chargers. Musk emphasized that this funding is solely for new stations and expansions, excluding the considerably higher operational costs.

In recovery efforts, Tesla has rehired several former employees, including key figures like Max de Zegher. The company is moving towards stabilizing the network development amid growing demand and strategic partnerships aiming to broaden network accessibility.