Following several issues at Supercharger stations where gas-powered cars were blocking access, Tesla is now implementing an innovative way to avoid ‘Icing’ Superchargers and make sure the spots are always ready for Tesla vehicles.
It’s not exactly uncommon for vehicles to block access to charging stations.
It’s referred to in EV community as ‘Icing’ a charging station – when ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles are occupying a space for an EV.
Most often than not, it’s a mistake from the driver or someone who simply doesn’t care, but we have recently reported in instances were truck drivers appeared to be doing it on purpose aggressively and in protest of Tesla.
In China, Tesla has now started using an interesting system to make sure it doesn’t happen.
They are deploying those locks in the parking spots with QR codes linked to an app for Tesla owners to unlock them in order to park (pictures via Jayinshanghai):
Tesla is installing those device at new Supercharger stations in China. It doesn’t seem to have made its way internationally yet.
Electrek’s Take
That’s an interesting system. Though it appears to only work through the WeChat app. It would be nice for Tesla to make it work from the Tesla app or even directly within the vehicle.
I wouldn’t mind seeing this system being implemented globally where it’s feasible.
I don’t think it would work everywhere because the parking spots at most Supercharger stations are still owned by the property owners and Tesla would probably need to have the system approved by them.
Also, the issue that Tesla has been having with anti-Tesla pickup truck drivers taking over Supercharger stations in the US recently would probably require or bigger system because those raised pickups could probably just park over one of those lock devices.
Nonetheless, I think it’s an interesting solution.
What do you think? Let us know in the comment section below.