Is It Safe to Sit in a Tesla While Supercharging?
While many mega-summer car trips are synonymous with sweating it out in the sweltering heat, consumers switching to electric vehicles (EVs) like Tesla have a comfy alternative. Gone are the days of fanning yourself while standing in the queue to fill up on gasoline. Instead, you can chill in your Tesla, sipping coffee and daydreaming in an air-conditioned environment, while the car charges. My last summer was no exception. I found it refreshing to play Pokémon Go while the car was being supercharged. However, some might be apprehensive about the safety of sitting in a Tesla during charging. Let's explore these concerns.
The Myth Busters: Safety in Tesla Supercharging
One common myth: the Tesla charging process poses a danger. But fear not, as we’ll discuss in this article. Power lines and charging stations use alternating current (AC), which generates a low-frequency electromagnetic field, similar to radio waves. Supercharging, on the other hand, utilizes direct current (DC) that creates a static magnetic field, localized to the wiring. This ensures you’re safe from any physiological dangers.
Moreover, most Level 2 chargers typically used by other EVs also operate on AC. They come with a transformer in the car that converts AC to DC. Since the current is relatively low, the effect on your body is almost negligible. You can even charge in the rain, and it’s generally safe to sit in your car during charging. Even Tesla recommends this behavior, as evidenced by their addition of features like video games and video streaming to enhance the charging experience.
Personal Experiences and Statistics
Having supercharged in various scenarios, including today, I can confidently say that the Tesla is a safe place to be. In fact, the number of times I’ve sat in my Tesla while charging is significant. Doesn’t matter if it's 35°C outside; I can relax in an air-conditioned environment, stay well out of the sun. Even better, you're sheltered from the elements, including the searing heat and potential weather events like rain.
While some people might spend their charging time on the pavement, many prefer the comfort of sitting in their car. Built-in entertainment systems typically keep those waiting companies entertained. At destination chargers, folks often go inside to shop or dine. In short, the Tesla charging experience is a hybrid of convenience and entertainment, making it truly a sit and sip kind of place.
Tesla’s Purposeful Design
Tesla has designed their EVs with convenient storage and amenities in mind. Which is partly why they’ve equipped the Tesla with video streaming and gaming capabilities. It’s a clear signal that they want you to stay comfortable during charging. Although these features might only give you a few minutes of entertainment, the overall experience is safe and delightful.
No, you won't risk your life while charging a Tesla. In fact, with facilities like Tesla’s superchargers, the safety measures are in place to ensure that sitting in your car during charging is the perfect wait. You won’t be electrocuted, and you have the added advantage of being out of the elements. So, the next time you're pondering whether to park in the shade or under the charging station, go ahead and enjoy the convenience and safety of your Tesla while it's charging.