Tesla Warns EV Owners Against Wet Towel Charging Hack: Here’s Why
Electric vehicle giant Tesla Inc. (TSLA) took to social media this week to caution its customers against using a common hack that involves dampening Supercharger cables to enhance charging speed. While the practice has circulated online for some time, Tesla emphatically stated that placing a wet cloth on Supercharger cable handles does not increase charging rate and instead poses risks of overheating or damage by interfering with temperature monitors.
Key Takeaways:
- Tesla firmly debunked the myth that dampening Supercharger cable handles improves charging speed. The company explained that this practice actually disrupts temperature monitoring, potentially leading to overheating or damage to the charging system.
- The company urged customers to avoid this hack to ensure the proper functioning of its Supercharger network and enable the detection of genuine charging issues.
- Tesla’s Supercharger network has experienced a slowdown in growth since the company announced layoffs earlier this year. While the network still expanded by 24% year-over-year in the second quarter, quarter-on-quarter growth was significantly lower than previous periods.
- Despite the slowdown, Tesla plans to invest $500 million in supercharger expansion this year, focusing on capital efficiency and strategic locations.
The Wet Towel Myth Debunked
Tesla’s social media post addressed a recurring online trend: the belief that wrapping wet towels around Supercharger cables can boost charging speeds. The idea stems from the fact that charging speeds can become slower during hotter weather due to increased cable temperatures. Placing a wet towel on the cable is believed to cool it down, thereby enabling faster charging.
However, Tesla’s statement clarified that this practice is not only ineffective but potentially harmful. The company emphasized that the Superchargers are designed to monitor temperature and regulate charging speeds to prevent overheating. Tampering with the cables through dampening can disrupt these internal systems, leading to malfunctions and potential equipment failures.
Tesla’s Supercharger Network: Slowdown and Future Plans
Tesla’s warning comes amidst a period of slower growth for its Supercharger network. While the company boasted 59,596 supercharger connectors worldwide by the end of Q2, this represents a significant decrease in quarter-on-quarter growth compared to previous periods. This slowdown coincides with Tesla’s decision to lay off 10% of its global workforce in April, impacting over 500 members of the supercharging team, including the Senior Director of Charging Infrastructure, Rebecca Tinucci.
Despite the slowdown, Tesla CEO Elon Musk reassured shareholders that the company remains committed to expanding the Supercharger network, allocating $500 million for this purpose in 2024. This investment will prioritize capital efficiency and focus on strategic deployment of superchargers in key locations, ensuring optimal coverage and accessibility across its network.
Implications for EV Drivers & the Industry
Tesla’s warning serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to manufacturer guidelines when it comes to using charging systems. While hacks and shortcuts might seem appealing, they can actually compromise the safety and performance of critical infrastructure, ultimately impacting the overall user experience.
The slowdown in Supercharger network growth raises questions about Tesla’s long-term commitment to expanding its charging infrastructure. While the company continues to invest in its network, the impact of recent layoffs and the change in growth trajectory remain to be seen.
Ultimately, the importance of a robust and accessible charging network cannot be overstated in the rapidly growing electric vehicle market. Tesla’s actions and future developments regarding its Supercharger network will have a significant impact on the wider EV ecosystem, influencing both drivers and competing manufacturers alike.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
