Currently: Tesla is introducing a feature for (expensive) escaping from Superchargers in critical situations
Image: teslamag.de (illustrative photo)
Charging a Tesla at a supercharger can make one feel somewhat uneasy. On one hand, you’re relatively safe inside the car, which can be locked if needed, but on the other hand, you’re stuck in certain situations if threatened, as the car can’t be driven away with the charging cable still connected. Tesla is now addressing this issue with a software update: those who absolutely want to leave without unplugging the cable can override the lock using a screen command. According to Tesla, this action damages both superchargers and vehicles.
Tesla warns of high costs
The new feature, called “emergency drive away,” is currently being introduced via a software update, according to a video Tesla posted on X on Thursday night. It shows a silver Model Y driving away with a Supercharger cable still plugged in. A metallic sound can be heard, and then the cable along with its plug lies on the ground as the Tesla continues driving out of frame.
Emergency Drive Away allows you to shift into drive mode while still connected to a Supercharger pic.twitter.com/40GSzyP4lG
— Tesla Charging (@TeslaCharging) October 1, 2026
According to Tesla, emergency departure can damage both the vehicle and the Supercharger station. The feature should not be used casually, but it is now available in case it is needed. Upon inquiry, it was stated that repair costs could amount to up to $25,000. Apparently, Tesla assumes that most of the damage occurs to its own infrastructure. However, the charging port of the vehicle that fled also needs to be checked at a service center at the very least.
It depends on the Supercharger, but electrical and civil repair costs can reach up to $25k. A service visit is required for the charging port. Use only in emergencies.
— Tesla Charging (@TeslaCharging) October 2, 2026
One should therefore think carefully before using the escape function. According to Tesla, those who abuse it must also expect additional penalties.
Its introduction may have been accelerated by an incident in early August: At a Supercharger in Idaho, a gunman killed seven people, including a man who was charging in his Tesla, reports Electrek. Many Tesla owners subsequently demanded solutions. Previously, such an option already existed in the accessories market in the form of an EVject adapter for $290, which fits between the Supercharger plug and the charging port and is designed to break relatively easily.
Supercharger Adapter as an Alternative
According to Tesla, the new feature will be included in the update to software version 2026.38.3. It is currently available only at Superchargers in the U.S. – the company has not explicitly announced any future expansion to other regions. It was also unclear at first whether emergency ejection would work at third-party charging stations; it is possible that Tesla has greater legal concerns in this regard. The EVject adapter can be used at any charging station according to the manufacturer, but it is currently only available for pre-order in Europe.
