Vandalism and theft have become a growing concern at Tesla Superchargers, with the soaring price of copper fueling criminal activity. As of February 13, the price of copper in the U.S. stands at $4.70 per pound, making EV charging cables a lucrative target for thieves. This, coupled with the current political climate in America and Elon Musk’s involvement in slashing government spending, has created a perfect storm for individuals looking to exploit Superchargers for financial gain.
In response to these challenges, Tesla is implementing new measures to combat vandalism and theft at its Supercharger network. Max de Zegher, director of charging at Tesla, has revealed plans to enhance the security of the charging cables. The company is introducing new casings that are more difficult to cut through, as well as exploring the use of dyes that will explode if the casing is tampered with. Additionally, Tesla is considering engraving “Property Of Tesla” directly onto the wiring produced at its Buffalo, New York facility. This unique identifier will make it easier to track stolen copper back to the source, discouraging potential criminals from targeting Superchargers.
While these measures aim to deter theft and vandalism, Tesla is also facing challenges on other fronts. The company experienced a decline in sales in 2024, and Elon Musk’s controversial actions have sparked protests globally. Reports of vandalism extend beyond Superchargers to include Tesla Service Centers and individual vehicle owners who have been caught in the crossfire of Musk’s actions.
As Tesla’s Supercharger network continues to expand, it is crucial that steps are taken to ensure the security and integrity of the charging infrastructure. By implementing innovative solutions and leveraging technology, Tesla hopes to protect its assets and maintain the efficiency of its charging network amidst increasing threats. Let’s hope that these measures prove effective in safeguarding Superchargers and preventing further incidents of theft and vandalism.