Tesla tests new measures to prevent cable theft at Superchargers
Charging hubs are increasingly becoming a target for thieves, who are primarily after the copper inside the cables. Common countermeasures include CCTV surveillance and embedded trackers that help locate stolen cables. More recently, some operators have introduced built-in alarm systems and reinforced, cut-resistant cables.
Tesla is now testing two new methods to deter cable theft at its Superchargers. The first is inspired by security measures used by banks to prevent ATM robberies – marking criminals with dye. The concept works as follows: the charging cables are encased in a protective sheath, with a warning sign that reads “Do not cut.” If a thief attempts to slice through the sheath to access the copper inside, a special dye is released, spraying the perpetrator. This dye is difficult to remove and is designed to help law enforcement identify and apprehend suspects.
The system, known as Dye Defender, was developed by US-based company CatStrap. Originally focused on preventing catalytic converter theft, CatStrap may now have found a new market in protecting charging cables. The system is being deployed first in Seattle, Washington—an area that has become a hotspot for cable theft. For instance, Volkswagen subsidiary Electrify America reported that 93 charging cables were stolen in the state within a single year.
Tesla’s second anti-theft measure involves engraving the copper inside the charging cables with the inscription “Property of Tesla Motors.” It is intended to alert scrap metal dealers and recycling firms when stolen materials are brought in, encouraging them to report any suspicious activity to Tesla.
By implementing these measures, Tesla aims to make cable theft less attractive and improve charging reliability for EV drivers.
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