A theory is circulating online that says that wrapping the Supercharger connector in a wet towel speeds up the charging of electric cars. Despite being popular, the idea has been the target of a warning from Tesla.
Apparently, and proven by several users, wrapping the connector in a wet towel speeds up the charging process at Tesla Superchargers. The theory has spread across the Internet and the trick has been tested by drivers. According to Electrek, in fact, the website Out of Specs tested it and was actually able to increase the charging rate from 58 kW to 119 kW.
While impressive and appearing to speed up the charging of some customers' electric cars, Tesla shared that "placing a damp cloth over the Supercharger cable does not increase charging rates and interferes with the temperature sensors, creating the risk of overheating or damage."
The electric car manufacturer denied, via X, the trick that conquered the Internet:
Placing a wet cloth on Supercharger cable handles does not increase charging rates and interferes with temperature monitors creating risk of overheating or damage. Please refrain from doing this so our systems can run correctly, and true charging issues can be detected by our…
— Tesla Charging (@TeslaCharging) July 25, 2024
In addition to denying that the damp cloth speeds up the charging process, Tesla asked drivers to refrain from doing so, so that its systems can function correctly and "detect real charging problems."
As the same media outlet points out, thermal management is an important part of fast charging. After all, sending high-voltage current through small cables creates a lot of heat.
However, while it may seem like thermal management can be achieved with a damp towel, it doesn't make much difference. This is because it disorients the connector's heat sensors, making the system assume it's safe to send more current, and potentially putting the conductors at risk.
Source: pplware.sapo.pt
