So, this question comes to mind.
Harris Ranch with 18 stalls (if my memory is correct) is 27 miles north.
Buttonwillow with 10 stalls is 53 miles south.
Bakersfield West with 10 stalls is 58 miles south.
In addition, Tejon Ranch is about 93 miles away, and Gustine is about 101 miles away.
In short, drivers will easily be able to bypass this new SuperDuper charger with its 40 stalls and lounge on their way between southern and northern California.
Is it possible that this new sort of charging plaza with amenities and ample hook ups will be a fee-based model? Perhaps in line with the proposed larger current?
The traditional models that are free, or have the 400kWh allotment will continue to be thus. So, Tesla is not reneging on its promotional pledge. However, since Tesla has invested a lot more money in buying the real estate, improving the building, and (I assume) have an employee or two at the lounge or to direct traffic, it might be more of an incentive for Tesla to charge for this privilege. Even though the solar panels will generate an offset to the costs, the carrying costs with property taxes, insurance, repairs, maintenance, etc., might be larger than any other free station.
We drivers could then choose the free or fee-based model. No idle charges at the fee-based model. But perhaps a slight increase from the 20-cent/kWh charge in California for those without the free plan.
Just throwing this out there. . . .