Tesla Supercharger Network vs. the World

dbsb3233

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In the long run but in the long run we're all dead. The real alternative to the Tesla network for distance is EA, and that is entirely funded by government fines.

If you want infrastructure fast then the government will have to play a big role. The entire idea that "free markets" can do things that they obviously aren't designed to do is absurd.

The electric utilities would likely take care of the issue but they are government created monopolies and state PUCs won't allow them to use their monopoly power (rightly or wrongly).
The free market could and would do it just fine, IF there were a business case for it. At present there's almost none though. Not even entirely sure there will ever be a strong business case for high power chargers. Seems like an awfully low-volume, low-revenue business (especially when most charging just takes place at home). But of course it's all relative to the costs.

Be curious to see some cost analysis on it.
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dbsb3233

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No, not at all. I'm no fan of any of these taxpayer subsidies.
 

dbsb3233

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Only if you assume there was no "public need" to greatly improve mobility and quality of life for Americans. Which of course there was.

If anything, it's the other way around -- automobiles provided DRAMATIC value to improve people's lives relative to the alternative of the time. Unlike EVs that don't add any new functionality. They just don't pullute as much.
 

dbsb3233

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Exactly. There simply wouldn't be many chargers if they can't support themselves.

(And I actually said I'm not sure if there would ever be a business case. Need to see more on the actual costs to know for sure.)
 

dbsb3233

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What's your source for that "300%" number? Sounds wildly optimistic.
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