Superchargers provide up to 120 kW of DC power directly to the Model S battery using special cables that bypass the onboard charging equipment. Supercharger stations are strategically placed to allow owners to drive from station to station with minimal stops. Stations are located near amenities such as roadside diners, cafes, and shopping centers so road trippers can stop for a meal and have their Model S charged by the time they’re done.

The Superchargers can be used 24/7 and no charge pass of any kind is necessary. Drivers can charge for as little as 20 to 30 minutes while they grab a quick bite to eat before getting back on the road with almost a full charge.

Tesla’s first network of European Supercharging stations opened in Norway at the end of August. More European routes will be energized in the coming months, providing coverage well within the Model S rated range of 480 km (298 mile) per charge (85 kWh variant).

Tesla plans that by the end of 2014, 100% of the population of the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Denmark will live within 320 km of a Supercharger station, with about 90% of the population in England, Wales and Sweden living within the same distance of a charging station.