Tesla has introduced an Emergency Exit feature for its vehicles in the United States, allowing drivers to shift into drive and pull away while the Supercharger cable is still connected. The company explicitly warns that this action will cause damage to both the vehicle and the charging equipment.
According to Tesla, the potential damage to a Supercharger station can reach up to $25,000, depending on the specific circumstances. Repairs may involve complex electrical and civil engineering work, as the damage extends beyond the cable or connector. The vehicle itself must also be sent to a service center for a charging port inspection.
The company confirmed that the feature is compatible with V2, V3, and V4 Superchargers, but it does not support home charging units. During the emergency maneuver, glycol-based coolant may leak from the charging cable, requiring professional cleanup during the mandatory station maintenance.
Tesla has not clarified whether the driver will be held financially responsible for repair costs if the feature is used during a genuine emergency. However, the company stated that intentional misuse of the Emergency Exit function will result in additional penalties, though the specific measures remain undisclosed.
