Tesla Adds Emergency Drive-away Option At Us Superchargers
A software update lets supported Tesla drivers leave a US Supercharger without first unplugging, though doing so can damage the car and charging equipment.
Tesla has introduced an Emergency Drive Away feature that lets drivers leave a US Supercharger while the charging cable is still connected. The software update follows a shooting at a Supercharger location in Twin Falls, Idaho, after which owners asked for a faster way to escape a dangerous situation, according to The Verge and Engadget.
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Why Tesla changed the charging lock
Normally, a Tesla cannot be shifted into Drive while it is charging. The connector remains locked to the vehicle until the driver releases it. Engadget says drivers can ordinarily unlock the charge port through the vehicle’s screen or app, or by pressing a button on the charging handle—steps that could delay a departure in an emergency.
The Verge reports that the August shooting in Twin Falls left four people dead and seven wounded, including a Tesla owner who was charging. Engadget reports that a driver was shot inside the Tesla taxi he was charging at an In-N-Out Burger location in the city. Both outlets say owners subsequently called for a way to drive off without first disconnecting the cable. The Verge notes that Tesla did not mention the shooting in its feature announcement.
How Emergency Drive Away works
If a driver shifts into Drive with the Supercharger cable attached, the car displays an alert offering an override. Engadget says the driver must hold the brake pedal and tap Activate on the vehicle’s screen. The Verge reports that the charging handle then breaks away and falls to the ground.
Tesla warns that using the feature will damage the vehicle and charging equipment. It says the option should be used only in an emergency and that deliberate misuse will bring additional penalties. According to Engadget, Tesla said electrical and civil costs could reach $25,000, but it remains unclear whether a driver would be charged for using the feature in a genuine emergency.
Availability and earlier alternatives
Drivers need the latest software to access Emergency Drive Away, Engadget reports. The feature currently works only at Superchargers in the United States, and Tesla vehicles built before 2021 in the Model S and Model X lines are not supported, according to the outlet.
The Verge says aftermarket companies had previously offered breakaway charging adapters. One company, EVject, introduced an adapter in 2024. Tesla sued after its testing found the adapter could overheat, then dropped the case later that year; EVject maintains that its product is safe.
Sources
This story was compiled by AI from the reports below. Read the originals for the full details.