The Top 5 Wallboxes for Your Tesla in Germany: Which One to Choose?

Introduction

In recent years, Germany has emerged as a leader in the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). In fact, according to the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA), Germany registered over 470,559 electric vehicles in 2022. This translates into a 68% market increase in total number of EVs in Germany from the previous year. Among these, Tesla models are a popular choice, known for their cutting-edge technology, remarkable range, and luxurious design. If Elon Musk’s company continues it’s incredible market share growth, Tesla can then account for more than 20% of new EV registrations in 2023.

Then, for Tesla owners and future owners, the availability of a reliable, fast, and convenient home charging solution is crucial. Wallboxes, or home charging stations, make this possible by allowing Tesla owners to charge their vehicles from the comfort of their homes, saving them the trouble of finding a public charging station. With a good EVSE, Tesla drivers can charge their EV overnight, ensuring they wake up to a fully charged vehicle ready for the day's commute.

In this guide, we'll review the top 5 wallboxes for Tesla in Germany. We'll discuss their features, their compatibility with Tesla models, and the factors to consider when choosing a home charging station.

Criteria for Choosing a Wallbox

Selecting the right home charging station for your Tesla is crucial for a smooth EV experience. Here are some criteria to consider:

• High charging Speed: The charging speed can reach up to 22kWh with three-phase. Other good-quality charging stations provide around 11kWh. More typically, though, charging speeds fall within a solid range of 3.6 to 7.4kWh.
• Price: The price varies significantly based on the model: from €300 to €2,000. For example, Tesla Wall connector 2nd generation costs €399, while 3rd generation: €549.
• Warranty and Customer Support: It usually is 12 months for the installation, and 3 to 4 years for the equipment warranty. Tesla wall connector offers a warranty of 48 months.
• Connectivity Options: Modern wallboxes often come with WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to monitor the charging status via a mobile app, schedule charging times, or control the charging remotely.
• Safety Features: A good wallbox should have safety features such as overcurrent protection, short circuit protection, ground fault protection, and thermal protection.
• Compatibility with Tesla Models:  Ensure that the EVSE you choose can charge your Tesla model efficiently, it should be specified in the technical documentation of the charger model.
• Ease of Installation and Use: The best wallboxes are user-friendly and easy to install. Some can be plugged into a standard electrical outlet, while others (Level 2) require hardwiring by a certified electrician.

Top 5 Home Chargers for Tesla in Germany

1. Tesla Wall Connector EU Gen 3

The Tesla Wall Connector offers an optimal home charging experience for electric vehicles. Key features include:

• Compatibility with all EVs sporting a Type 2 charging port, including Tesla Model S, X, 3, and Y EU models
• Ability to deliver up to 22 kW charging power in three-phase networks, with adjustable power to suit personal needs and circuit breaker limits
• Speedy charging, offering up to 71 km/hour range
• WiFi connectivity for easy firmware updates, along with remote monitoring and alert notifications via the Tesla App
• Power-sharing capabilities to support multiple Wall Connectors, ideal for households with more than one EV
• Safety-centric design, including a white glass finish for shock protection, and an easy-to-use interface that opens the Tesla charging port directly from the Wall Connector
• Easy installation in single or three-phase networks, with an option to set maximum current at installation
• A durable and lightweight build designed for both indoor and outdoor use, equipped with a 7.3 m cable for flexible charging options

The Gen 3 Wall Connector, crafted specifically for EU models, enhances the user experience with smart charging features and the ability to integrate with the solar array and Powerwall systems in the future. Despite its maximum output being lower than Gen 2 (48 amps vs 80 amps), its efficiency matches its predecessor, ensuring swift charging speeds.

Priced at 549€ in Germany, excluding taxes, this unit offers a 48-month warranty from purchase. Users could potentially enjoy financial incentives such as tax credits depending on their location, making it a viable choice for a home charging solution.

2. Juicebox 40

The JuiceBox 40 is an efficient solution for an EVSE, with a variety of features catering to user convenience and cost savings:

• High Power Charging: With an input voltage of 240 Volts and a current rating of 40 A, the JuiceBox 40 offers up to 7x faster charging than standard charging stations, with a high-power 10kW output.
• User-friendly Design: The charging station is suitable for both indoor and outdoor mounting and comes with a built-in cable tray and security lock. The design includes dynamic LED lights that display the charging status.
• WiFi Connectivity: The JuiceBox 40 provides a WiFi-enabled system that syncs with the free JuiceNet app. Users can monitor and control charging, set reminders, and even receive notifications when their EV is fully charged. The station also supports voice control via Amazon Echo/Alexa.
• Smart Grid Savings: It allows users to schedule charging during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower, promoting cost-effective EV usage.
• Plug-in Installation: The JuiceBox 40 is ready to use once plugged into a NEMA 14-50R outlet and can be adapted to be compatible with some dryer outlets.
• Compatibility: It is compatible with Tesla models and other EVs, making it a versatile charging solution.

JuiceBox 40 comes with a 3-year limited warranty for normal residential use and is UL-listed and ENERGY STAR certified, ensuring quality and sustainability.

3. Wallbox Pulsar Plus (Type 2-22 KW | 5m)

The Wallbox Pulsar Plus offers a compact yet powerful home charging solution. Here are its main features:

• High Power Charging: With a current of 32 A, the Wallbox Pulsar Plus offers up to 22 kW charging power, providing a speedy charging experience for your Tesla.
• Compact Design: At 16 x 16 cm, this wallbox fits perfectly even in tight spaces, making it suitable for home use.
• Bluetooth Connectivity: This feature allows you to manage the charging process through the myWallbox app. You can schedule charging times, monitor charging status, and adjust power levels based on your needs.
• Advanced Load Management: With the myWallbox app, you can configure load management solutions to optimize charging.
• Compatibility: It features a Type 2 connection, making it compatible with Tesla and other EVs with a Type 2 port.

With its advanced features and compact design, the Wallbox Pulsar Plus is a solid choice for Tesla owners. Pricing details and warranty information can be obtained from the manufacturer or local distributors.

4. Schneider Electric Wallbox EVLINK HOME 11KW - T2 Kabel

Schneider Electric's EVLINK HOME offers a robust and user-friendly EVSE. Key features include:

• Robust Charging: This wallbox provides Mode 3 charging 3-phase with a maximum 11 kW charging power, ensuring speedy charging for your Tesla.
• Durable Build: It is designed for both indoor and outdoor installation (IP54), and it can withstand extreme temperatures (-30 to +50°C), making it a suitable choice for various climates.
• Safety Measures: It comes with 6mA DC current detection, allowing the use of a type A RCD for added safety.
• Easy-to-Use Interface: It features a Type 2 socket for easy connectivity with your Tesla.
• Resilience: The EVLINK Home boasts a shock resistance of IK10, the highest rating, ensuring its robustness to physical impacts.

Priced at 399€ excluding taxes, the Schneider Electric Wallbox EVLINK HOME is a reliable option for Tesla owners, offering impressive safety features and a user-friendly interface.

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5. Heidelberg Wallbox Home Eco

The Heidelberg Wallbox Home Eco is a popular option for its affordability and quality. It comes with the following features:

• Efficient Charging: With an 11 kW power output, the Heidelberg Home Eco ensures your Tesla is charged quickly and efficiently.
• Suitable for Outdoor Use: It carries an IP54 rating, making it resistant to dust and water splashes, suitable for outdoor installation.
• User-friendly Interface: It features a Type 2 charging plug, compatible with all Tesla models.

Though a simpler design compared to other options, the Heidelberg Wallbox Home Eco focuses on efficient and reliable charging, making it a good choice for those who prefer straightforward functionality over additional features. Priced at 350€ excluding taxes, for more information please consult the manufacturer or your local distributor.

Conclusion

Choosing the right wallbox for your Tesla is an important decision that should be based on your specific needs and budget. The Tesla Wall Connector Gen 3, Juicebox 40, Wallbox Pulsar Plus, Schneider Electric Wallbox EVLINK HOME, and Heidelberg Wallbox Home Eco are all excellent options, each with their unique features and advantages. Your choice should depend on factors like charging speed, connectivity options, safety features, ease of use, price, and warranty.

FAQs

Q1: Are there any government incentives available for purchasing a wallbox in Germany?

Yes, the German government offers incentives for the installation of home charging stations for electric cars as part of its efforts to promote e-mobility. For details, consult the official government website or your local authority.

Q2: Can I use a non-Tesla branded EVSE to charge my Tesla?

Yes, as long as the wallbox has a Type 2 connector (the standard for EVs in Europe), you can use it to charge your Tesla.

Q3: How fast can a home charging station charge a Tesla?

The speed at which a wallbox can charge a Tesla depends on its power output. For instance, an 11 kW home charging station can charge a Tesla Model 3 Long Range from 0 to 80% in about 8 hours.

Q4: Can I install a wallbox myself or do I need an electrician?

It is highly recommended to have a wallbox installed by a certified electrician to ensure safety and correct operation. Use the free Tesla electrician research tool here to find certified professionals that can install your EVSE in Germany.

Q5: Which wallbox to choose for my Tesla?

The choice of a wallbox depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as charging speed, connectivity options, safety features, ease of use, price, and warranty. Home charging stations mentioned in this guide are all great options for Tesla owners in Germany.