Shockwaves Hit New Jersey Drivers as Tesla Superchargers Get the Boot—Will This Set Back EV Progress?
Tesla’s 64 Supercharger stalls will be removed from the NJ Turnpike—here’s why, who’s replacing them, and what EV drivers must know for 2025.
- 64 Tesla Supercharger stalls to be decommissioned on the NJ Turnpike
- 240+ New universal chargers promised by Applegreen by 2025
- 100% Zero-emission new car sales target for NJ by 2035
- 8 Service plazas impacted by Tesla’s removals
In a dramatic shift for New Jersey’s electric vehicle (EV) landscape, Tesla will shut down 64 Supercharger stalls along the high-traffic New Jersey Turnpike. The move comes after the New Jersey Turnpike Authority (NJTA) handed an exclusive charging contract to Applegreen—the operator behind many of the state’s travel plazas.
While the state touts progress in expanding EV infrastructure, Tesla and many local drivers see the change as a serious roadblock. The headline-grabbing decision essentially sidelines the EV charging pioneer from one of the Northeast’s busiest corridors. What does this mean for the thousands of current and future EV drivers speeding down the Turnpike? Here’s what you need to know.
Q: Why Is Tesla Being Pushed Out of Turnpike Charging?
Tesla’s sudden departure from NJ’s Turnpike wasn’t by choice. According to NJTA, Applegreen, already managing most service stops’ rest facilities, secured the exclusive right to install and run EV chargers. This deal bars Tesla from co-locating its stalls, forcing the decommission of all its charging points at eight key plazas.
A Tesla spokesperson emphasized this change as a setback for New Jersey’s zero-emission goals, calling out the state for “removing, rather than adding” fast-charging options. Tesla claims these closures cut vital infrastructure for current EV drivers and could slow New Jersey’s goal of achieving 100% zero-emission new car sales by 2035.
How Will the New Universal Chargers Work?
Applegreen’s promised chargers are universal—designed to support every major EV brand. Half will use the North American Charging Standard—the same as Tesla—ensuring compatibility for Tesla vehicles with the right adapter. The rollout will stretch to all 21 service areas on both the Turnpike and Garden State Parkway, dramatically boosting coverage.
According to NJTA, 240 chargers are planned by 2025, quadrupling the number of public chargers previously available from Tesla. The universal approach aims to serve the state’s rapidly growing non-Tesla EV market, which is set to surge as manufacturers like Ford, GM, and Hyundai expand their offerings (Ford, GM).
Q: What Does This Mean for Tesla Owners?
While Tesla vehicles will still be able to use many of these new chargers, the seamless, high-speed “Supercharger experience” exclusive to Tesla is set to disappear from one of America’s busiest highways. Tesla devotees may need to rely on new adapters and apps to keep charging fast and easy.
Meanwhile, Tesla says it will keep building out charging spots “off the Turnpike” to support its growing customer base across the Garden State. The company leaves the door open for future collaboration—if policymakers change course.
How Will This Impact New Jersey’s 2025 EV Goals?
As New Jersey pushes toward 100% zero-emission new car sales by 2035, infrastructure is everything. The rapid replacement of branded charging with universal options could speed up mainstream adoption, but it also risks confusing EV drivers used to Tesla’s network.
On the upside, if Applegreen delivers on its multi-brand promise, New Jersey could become a leader in open-access charging, setting a standard for states nationwide.
Q: When Does the Switch Happen?
Changes roll out starting June 6, 2025, with service plazas gradually converting Supercharger stalls to universal chargers, according to a statement from NJTA. Tesla, meanwhile, encourages drivers to plan alternative charging spots via its in-car map and app.
Want up-to-date tips on navigating New Jersey’s new EV charging world? Bookmark this story and check for updates as the transition unfolds.
Checklist: How to Stay Charged on the NJ Turnpike in 2025
- Check charger locations and compatibility before long trips
- Download the Applegreen and Tesla charging apps
- Get the appropriate adapter for Tesla/non-Tesla compatibility
- Plan alternative charging stops off the Turnpike, especially during construction
- Stay informed via Tesla and Applegreen updates
Energize your next journey: Stay informed and plan ahead as New Jersey’s EV transition accelerates!
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