Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do the Tesla™ GPUs work?

Using dry cell batteries and advanced circuitry Tesla GPUs / MPUs deliver the amount of power that an engine requires.

2. How are our units used for Aviation?

Pre-flight testing of equipment (before engine startup) does not deplete the aircraft’s battery. This can be accomplished at the hangar by connecting our unit to aircraft thereby providing flat line, pure dc power to aircraft. Once the systems check is complete, the aircraft can also be started by our unit.

3. Can a Tesla™ GPU be used for System checks?

Tesla™ units will provide from 25 to 400 continuous amps of dc power. Find the right GPU for your need depending on how many continuous amps you require. You must have the proper ac power outlet available for the unit you wish to use. Tesla GPU’s will provide continuous and pure flat line dc power. They will do so with very little noise (only the sound of a small cooling fan) and take up very little space.

4. Will a Tesla™ GPU start a turbine engine?

Our systems "spool" turbine systems the way they were designed to start; this puts less stress on aircraft’s engines and reduces starting time. This is because our units provide much more starting power than conventional aircraft batteries. (This is same for tanks, as they use turbines).

5. How many Vehicles can I start before my GPUs batteries are depleted?

One of the primary benefits of our systems is their automatic ability to re-charge themselves, instantly, by the started engine. Because of this back charge, you can start as many vehicles as you have without a pause.

6. How do you prolong the life of the GPUs batteries?

Units should be plugged into common ac outlets (110, 220, etc.) while not in use so they stay fully charged. If your GPU is plugged into ac at all times the batteries will stay at peak charge without overcharging.

7. Are Tesla™ GPUs used in Shop maintenance and testing?

Tesla systems are gaining popularity throughout maintenance facilities, instructional facilities, laboratories, manufacturing plants, aircraft hangars and many other locations. The reason is due to the precise flat line dc power, the small, portable and quiet nature of our systems and the maintenance free aspect of our GPU's. We can custom tailor ground power systems to fit your individual requirements.

8. How much does it weigh? Can one person transport it?

Turbo Starts™ are designed to be handled by one person. The TI500 is our smallest GPU system to date and weighs 35 lbs. The TI1000 weighs 57 lbs and can be carried or wheeled on a dolly. Larger units have wheels incorporated directly on the system with an extendable handle.

9. Is the Turbo Start™ in the government purchasing system?

Yes. Tesla™ Industries is an approved vendor/supplier and has a cage code (0VWE2). Most Tesla products are class 9, have a NSN (National Stock Number) designation and can be acquired through the DLA (Defense Logistics Agency).

10. How long does this unit stay charged?

Unit should never be allowed to discharge fully. In-field use, it receives a dc back charge directly from a running engine. When not in use, unit should be plugged into ac power (outlet) all the time. Tesla™ systems have a shelf life of one year retaining 80% capacity.

11. How long do I have before I can start another vehicle?

No delay. Continuous starting capacity – unit received dc back charge from the vehicle once it is started. Just keep the unit plugged in for a few seconds and it will instantly replenish itself.

12. What powers the unit?

Tesla™ units employ a unique, proprietary, non-spillable, dry-cell technology in all our power units. These dry cell batteries are extremely powerful and have no "memory" and no thermal "runaway".

13. How long do Tesla™ dry cells last?

We have systems in use for over 10 years that still have the original cells. We also get units back for cell replacement after 3 years. It depends on the systems use and whether or not the unit is plugged in while not in use. Keeping the unit plugged in will greatly increase the life of the cells.

14. How do I get my unit serviced?

If your unit needs to be serviced please fill out a Repair Request form and/or contact the Tesla™ Customer Service.

15. Can I make my own repairs to unit?

During the warranty period, the unit can only be repaired by Tesla™ Industries for the warranty to remaining effect. Regardless, we strongly recommend allowing Tesla to repair any unit as we will analyze the complete system and re-calibrate it.

16. What type of maintenance do I need to do?

Although the systems are maintenance free, please keep units plugged in while not in use. Also, keep the vent areas clean and free of debris. Keep units in a well ventilated area while charging.

17. What type of vehicles does this unit start?

Varying on the unit you have, most units will start all 24V military vehicles - track and wheel. Tesla does offer units that will start both 12V and 24V.

18. Is it available in 12V?

Yes, Yes it is. Certain Tesla™ GPUs are operational from both 12V and 24V.

19. Are there any HAZMAT issues or disposability problems?

There are none. Tesla™ will reclaim all battery cells for disposability purposes. Contact Tesla™ if you have questions.

20. Does the GPU come with axle extensions?

Yes. Axle extensions are included as standard with this unit.

21. What kind of ac power do I need for recharge?

Depending on the unit, most will recharge from 110V, 220V or 240V.

22. How long are standard dc cables?

Standard cables are 8ft for Aviation models and 15ft for Mechanized models. Please contact Tesla™ for more information or refer to the cables section.

23. Is it waterproof?

Water-resistant but not waterproof. Systems can be protected from the elements with a Tesla™ Rain Cover.