This guide uses approximate data. Charging speeds, prices, and compatibility depend on your specific vehicle variant, station hardware, and conditions. EVcourse is not affiliated with Tesla or Ionity. Always check your vehicle manual and the charger screen.
Quick Overview
Step by Step
Find a Ionity station
Open the Ionity app or use a charging map like PlugShare to find a nearby station. Before you drive there, check that the station has an available CCS2 connector and is currently working.
Start your session
Good news: your Tesla Model 3 supports Plug & Charge on Ionity. Just plug in the cable and charging starts automatically. No app needed.
Plug in the CCS2 connector
Take the CCS2 cable from the charger and connect it to your Tesla Model 3's charging port. You should hear a click when the connector locks in. Your car's display will confirm the connection.
Charging starts
Once connected, your Tesla Model 3 can pull up to 175 kW. On Ionity chargers (up to 350 kW), your effective maximum is 175 kW. You will see the current power and estimated time on either the charger screen or your car's display.
Charging speed is fastest when your battery is between 10% and 50%. It gradually slows as the battery fills up. This is normal and protects battery health.
When to unplug
Your Tesla Model 3 has an LFP battery. Charging to 100% is fine and actually recommended occasionally so the car can calibrate its range estimate. For the fastest stop on a road trip, 80% is still the sweet spot.
Charging Speed on Ionity
Your Tesla Model 3 peaks at 175 kW DC. It uses a 400V architecture. Ionity chargers go up to 350 kW, but your car's onboard limit caps you at 175 kW.
Charging from 10% to 80% takes about 24 minutes under good conditions.
Actual speed depends on several factors: battery temperature (cold batteries charge slower), your current state of charge (charging slows above 50-60%), and how many other cars are sharing the same station. If other cars are plugged in at the same location, the charger may split power between them.
Payment Options at Ionity
- Ionity app. Download the app, create an account, and link a payment method. Start and stop sessions from your phone.
- Contactless payment. Tap your bank card or phone on the charger's payment terminal. No account needed.
- Plug & Charge. On supported vehicles (including the Tesla Model 3), just plug in and billing happens automatically.
Approximate ad-hoc price: 0.75 EUR/kWh. Actual prices vary by location and time. Subscriptions or roaming cards may offer lower rates.
Tips for Charging Tesla Model 3 on Ionity
- Use battery preconditioning before arriving at the charger. On the Tesla Model 3, set your navigation to the Ionity station and the car will warm the battery automatically for faster charging speeds.
- Plug & Charge is supported. Just plug in the cable and charging starts automatically. No app, no card, no tapping.
- Your Tesla Model 3 has an LFP battery. Charging to 100% occasionally is recommended for accurate range estimates. LFP batteries handle full charges better than NMC batteries.
- Ionity pricing is on the higher side at around 0.75 EUR/kWh. Check if a subscription or roaming card gives you a better rate.
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