Tesla has begun deploying ergonomic, easy-grip handles on cables at newly installed V4 Supercharger sites to enhance accessibility. These modifications target compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and better serve wheelchair users and individuals with limited mobility. The update arrives as the network opens to more non-Tesla electric vehicles.
Tesla's Supercharger network, known for its speed and reliability, is receiving an upgrade focused on inclusivity rather than performance. The company has started installing large, easy-grip handles positioned just below the plug on V4 Supercharger cables. These handles make it simpler to maneuver the cable from the stall to a vehicle, addressing the heft of the cables despite their lighter weight compared to CCS alternatives.
Stalls equipped with the new handles feature an accessibility sign reading “Accessible EV charging. Use Last.” Many also include painted accessibility symbols. Unlike designated handicap parking, these stalls remain open to all users, but the signage encourages courtesy toward those who need them most, similar to rules for pull-through trailer stalls which should only be used when others are occupied.
This change aligns with the Americans with Disabilities Act, which mandates accommodations at public facilities like EV charging stations. As electric vehicle adoption expands, including among aging drivers and people with disabilities, such features become key differentiators. Tesla's network, now accessible to non-Tesla EVs via the North American Charging Standard, faces growing demand from a broader audience.
The Tesla connector and built-in CCS adapter remain unchanged, preserving compatibility. By prioritizing accessibility, Tesla may set a benchmark that pressures competing networks to follow suit, ensuring the charging experience works for everyone.