Teslas are now able to drive off in emergencies while still connected to chargers in the United States, as an apparent response to the recent shooting of a couple who were charging their Tesla.
The US-only feature is available when using a Tesla Supercharger. A large warning appears on the vehicle’s screen when shifting into drive while charging, prompting the user to activate “Emergency Drive Away” if needed.
In a video, a Tesla spokesperson said the handle would break away and fall to the ground as the vehicle drives off.
“This is a peace of mind feature, not to be used lightly, but it’s there should you need it,” the spokesperson said.
MORE: Tesla launches new car without a radio
Ordinarily, the user needs to disconnect the charge cable from the electric vehicle before Drive can be engaged, with the process intended to protect the vehicle and charging infrastructure from damage.
In a series of posts on social media platform X, Tesla stressed the new emergency feature would damage the vehicle and charging infrastructure, and could incur costs of nearly AU$36,000.
“Intended for emergency use only. Use of this feature will damage your vehicle and the Supercharger. Deliberate misuse will invoke additional penalties,” Tesla said.
“…[cost of damage] Depends on the Supercharger, but electrical & civil cost can be up to $25k (AUD35,878). Service visit mandatory for the chargeport. Only use in case of an emergency.”
MORE: The Tesla Cybercab and the dystopian Hollywood horror show — opinion
Tesla said the feature was available now via the latest software update, however pre 2021 Tesla Model S and Tesla Model X are not supported.
Tesla made no mention of mass shootings in its announcement, however media and internet users were quick to link the new emergency feature to an attack in August.
In early August three people were killed and seven injured by a shooter in the vicinity of a fast food car park in the US state of Idaho.
MORE: 2027 Tesla Model Y, Model 3 updated in Australia with longer ranges
Among the victims were a 66 year old man who was killed, and his wife seriously injured, after the shooter fired on two Tesla vehicles parked and charging, according to ABC News (USA).
A man whose Tesla was charging next to the couple was also shot, and he spent 30 days in a coma, according to East Idaho News.
In example footage of an emergency drive-off posted by Tesla, a liquid can be seen spraying out of the broken cable as it severs. Tesla said this fluid is glycol, which is a part of the charger’s liquid cooling system.
The post Tesla adds emergency drive off feature, following mass shooting appeared first on Drive.
