A bit off topic but after looking at the national Supercharger map I see there are major "holes" if you will on the map. Are these due to State legislation issues, Tesla just hasn't gotten around to those areas, or just a lack of need?
Yes. I suspect there have been some low level, backroom, under-the-table, gentleman's agreements made between Good Ole' Boys who are under the thumb of local Boss Hogg type characters to slow the progression of the Supercharger network in some places. Paperwork that is
'lost', permit applications that are spontaneously and mysteriously misfiled, applications that are denied for no reason at all or for some rather insignificant technicality without warning -- all these can slow things down. There is, of course, the possibility that some folks just don't do their jobs very well, rather than being malicious and attempting to harm Tesla Motors intentionally.
Whenever I note such suspicions, I am immediately called a
'fanboi' and reminded that no one, anyone, anywhere cares about the pitiful number of cars that Tesla Motors might want to sell when Ford locations are trying to move 1,000,000 F-Series trucks per year in the US alone if they can. I point out that Tesla Motors has always consistently only spoken up publicly about actions taken at the State level to halt their business. I believe that is strategic, so that they don't appear to be some big, outsider, carpetbagger, corporate entity that is throwing their weight around in small burgs. Better to make it seem they are the ones being persecuted by Big Government that is slowing down the progress of an innovator who has the deck stacked against them. No need to go after clerks and administrators at the municipal or county level.
Others protest further, saying that Tesla Motors can build Superchargers
'Anywhere they want, anytime they want.' As if they are purposely meting out their construction to somehow
'save money' each quarter. At least one person states that no local interference could possibly prevent a Supercharger installation, because corporate firms own the malls and shopping centers and negotiate in good faith with all potential tenants. Thus, they have no concern whatsoever about local politics or private individuals might want.
I'm usually in agreement
@Red SagePutting Superchargers in locations with gas stations ONLY is beyond stupid. Putting Superchargers in locations with food, coffee and bathrooms that ALSO has gas is Super-Smart.
Agreed. Hence, why I want Tesla Motors to build their own locations where they can. That is my preference. I understand it may not be feasible in all areas. I understand it may be easier to partner with existing facilities in some places. I'm just not a fan of
'co-branding' at all. I would simply prefer that gas stations and truck stops were the absolute last resort as choices for Superchargers. That is all. Considering that folks have complained of a lack of Supercharger coverage in Western Pennsylvania for at least two years straight, hooking up with SHEETZ to cover I-80 may be that last resort.