Tesla adds Emergency Drive Away feature at US Superchargers after Idaho shooting

Before the new feature, a Tesla driver had to unlock the charge port from the vehicle's infotainment system or its app, or by pressing a button on the charger handle, before shifting from Park to Drive after charging. That sequence presented a problem for anyone needing to leave quickly. After the Idaho incident, Tesla owners called on the automaker to implement a quick get-away system, even if they had to pay for it so that it would not be abused.

Under the new setup, if a driver shifts into Drive while the charger is still attached, the infotainment system displays a notice saying the feature must be activated to override the lock. It also shows a warning that driving with the cable connected will cause damage to the car and to the Supercharger station. "Use only in an emergency," the warning states. To switch on the feature, the driver must hold the brake pedal and tap Activate on the screen.

The feature requires the latest software. For now, it only works with Superchargers in the United States, and pre-2021 Model S and Model X vehicles are not supported. On X, Tesla said deliberate misuse "will invoke additional penalties." Asked what kind of physical and monetary damages a user could expect if the feature is used, the company replied that "electrical and civil cost can be up to $25k." It is not clear whether Tesla will ask drivers to pay for activating the drive-away feature during actual emergencies.