Wes Morrill, the lead engineer for the Tesla Cybertruck, has issued a strong warning regarding the use of extension cords with Supercharger stations. Highlighting potential safety hazards, Morrill emphasized that utilizing North American Charging Standard (NACS) extension cords can lead to serious issues.
This caution arose in response to a discussion among electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts about an aftermarket NACS DC extension cord that would allow non-Tesla vehicles, such as the Rivian R1T and R1S, to utilize the Supercharger Network without occupying two charging spaces. While this may seem advantageous, Morrill strongly advised against it.
He expressed concern over multiple incidents of cable overheating associated with extension cords. Morrill stated, “I would recommend AGAINST using an extension cord on a Supercharger (or any DC charging station with a liquid-cooled cable). I’ve seen many instances where the cable overheated and shorted out.”
Morrill explained that Superchargers are equipped with temperature sensors in the handle that help manage the charging process. Using an extension cord compromises this safety feature. He further cautioned that introducing an additional junction point can generate excessive heat, worsening the potential risks.
While it may seem appealing to modify Supercharger cable lengths for convenience, such alterations can introduce safety hazards. Tesla has designed its Supercharger cables for optimal reliability and safety, considering various factors, including length.
Tesla has consistently prioritized safety in its vehicles and charging systems. Past warnings, such as discouraging the use of wet towels on charging handles to maximize power transfer, underscore the company's commitment to maintaining a secure charging experience for all users.
Tesla Cybertruck 2024 news from TESLARATI