Tesla is expanding its Supercharger network in collaboration with the American fast-food company Steak ‘n Shake. This agreement will add over 100 Supercharger stations to the restaurant’s locations across the United States. The agreement follows an unexpected social media conversation in which Steak ‘n Shake presented the concept, and Tesla soon reacted with assurance that multiple locations were already in development.
This partnership is a natural fit, given the fast-food chain’s strategic locations along highways and Tesla’s push for widespread charging accessibility.
A Social Media Exchange Turned Business Deal
The partnership began as an unexpected conversation on X (previously Twitter). Tesla CEO Elon Musk spoke with Steak ‘n Shake after the restaurant announced its transition from seed oils to beef tallow. In response, the restaurant’s account proposed putting Tesla charging stations throughout its locations. However, Tesla was well ahead of the curve, disclosing that six locations had already been signed, with over 20 more under consideration. Steak ‘n Shake responded excitedly, approving more than 100 locations and declaring, “Consider all sites approved!”
Aside from the social media buzz, the collaboration makes strategic sense. Steak ‘n Shake owns over 400 restaurants, many of which are located near highways—exactly where Tesla loves to site its Supercharger installations. These locations provide handy pit stops for Tesla drivers, allowing them to charge their automobiles while eating. The agreement reinforces Tesla’s goal of making long-distance EV driving easier, lowering range anxiety, and improving the entire charging experience.
Tesla’s Growing Restaurant Partnerships
This is not Tesla’s first partnership with a restaurant business. The company has previously worked with Ruby Tuesday to install several Supercharger stations at its locations. These collaborations result in a win-win situation: Tesla cars have easy charging alternatives, while eateries benefit from increased foot traffic. Tesla is changing the way EV drivers travel by combining Superchargers with restaurants.
Tesla’s V4 Superchargers: Faster and More Efficient
Tesla is also introducing its next-generation V4 Superchargers, which can give up to 500 kW charging speeds. These stations will drastically reduce charging times for eligible automobiles. Tesla’s Director of Charging for North America, Max de Zegher, claimed that each V4 stall is less than $40,000 to install. The company’s pre-fabricated Supercharger units, constructed in its Buffalo Gigafactory, help to hasten deployment while keeping costs down.
The Future of Tesla’s Charging and Dining Experience
Tesla isn’t done with restaurant collaborations. In addition, the business is creating a one-of-a-kind Supercharger cafe and drive-in movie theater in Los Angeles. The project, which was originally planned in 2018, eventually started construction in September 2023. While an official opening date is unknown, Tesla has already begun developing a mobile app for the facility, indicating that it may come soon.
Tesla’s relationship with Steak ‘n Shake is an important step toward growing its Supercharger network. As Tesla continues to improve the EV ownership experience, the company develops savvy restaurant relationships and implements unique projects like the Supercharger Diner. As more Superchargers arise at dining establishments, road trips in a Tesla become more convenient than ever.
