Tesla is building a "supercharger" for its electric cars near Interstate 470 in Topeka.

The city of Topeka confirmed Tesla received a permit earlier this month to build a charging station in the southwest corner of the parking lot at 5930 S.W. Huntoon, where an Arby’s sits in a shopping center including Dick’s Sporting Goods and The Home Depot. Construction is underway in the lot.

The parking lot is within sight of the Huntoon exit from I-470, which intersects with Interstate 70.

Alexis Georgeson, spokeswoman for California-based Tesla, said the charging station will open at some point in October, though she couldn’t give an exact date. It will have eight charging bays, she said.

Georgeson said chargers are in place in Hays, Goodland and Salina. Owners of the Tesla Model S can use superchargers for free, she said.

"We place superchargers along major corridors that our customers often travel and that connect city centers," she said. "Located just off I-70, this station supports a cross-country route that allows Tesla Model S owners to drive from Los Angeles to New York for free."

The Model S can charge enough in 20 minutes to drive about 150 miles, Georgeson said. The car can go about 265 miles on a full charge, she said.

"We strategically place superchargers to allow owners to drive from station to station with minimal stops," she said. "Superchargers are located near amenities like roadside diners, cafes and shopping centers so road trippers can stop for a quick meal and have their Model S charged by the time they’re done."

Other types of electric vehicles can’t use the supercharger because of the higher charge of about 135 kilowatts, Georgeson said.