Tesla has issued a warning regarding a new method circulating online that involves wrapping a wet towel around the Supercharger connector to expedite the charging process. The practice is aimed at cooling the connector to prevent overheating and thus avoid a reduction in charging power.
The technique, which has been shared on social media, primarily concerns the older V2 Superchargers. Some Tesla drivers have observed that these connectors become excessively hot during high ambient temperatures, which in turn reduces charging power. This reduction is intended to protect the components from overheating by lowering the power output.
Placing a wet cloth on Supercharger cable handles does not increase charging rates and interferes with temperature monitors creating risk of overheating or damage. Please refrain from doing this so our systems can run correctly, and true charging issues can be detected by our…
— Tesla Charging (@TeslaCharging) July 25, 2024
Tesla’s official Charging account responded to the reported method, cautioning against its use. “Even though the older V2 Superchargers have a lower charging capacity than the V3 and V4 stations, it is crucial to adhere to the safety mechanisms in place,” Tesla stated. The company emphasized that the charging power of 150 kW results in significant current levels, with a peak of 375 amps for a 400-volt electric vehicle. “Bypassing these safety mechanisms is unsafe and unnecessary,” Tesla added.
The issue was initially highlighted by the US portal InsideEVs in early May 2024, prompting Tesla’s recent advisory.
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