NJ Turnpike Ditches Tesla for Applegreen: A Controversial EV Charging Decision

New Jersey Turnpike Authority's decision to replace Tesla Superchargers with Applegreen Electric chargers has sparked controversy. The move is raising concerns about potential favoritism and the impact on EV drivers. Tesla argues that its Superchargers offer 99.9% uptime, less than 1% wait times, and 30% lower costs per kWh compared to competitors. The NJTA's relationship with Applegreen, highlighted by a $126 million investment in 2022, is fueling speculation of a conflict of interest. "This decision is nuts because it's going to exclude half the people who drive on the New Jersey Turnpike," said one critic. The NJTA board includes appointees by the governor, further intensifying scrutiny. The situation underscores the complexities of public-private partnerships and the importance of transparency in infrastructure decisions. The outcome of this decision will significantly impact EV drivers in New Jersey, highlighting the need for careful consideration of all stakeholders.