Tesla Shows Off Creepy Automated Charger Prototype
Tesla is testing a charger prototype that will automatically plug itself in to a car’s charging port.
Perhaps the future is now, with the American automaker sharing a new video of a prototype charger attaching itself to an electric vehicle all on its own. It might seem a bit creepy, especially given that the charger looks a bit like a robotic snake, but it’ll certainly be a luxury item to make owners’ lives a bit easier.
For a prototype, the charger takes a little over a minute to find its way to the vehicle’s charging port, but that’s a minute that you won’t have to spend plugging in the charger yourself. And besides, it’ll make you feel really special knowing that you have an automated charging butler at your disposal!
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The real-world benefits for an automated charger like this would apply to self-parking vehicles. Imagine being able to get dropped off at your work or even a shopping mall and having your Model S drive itself to a special parking spot with a charger finding its way to the port all by itself. When you’re ready to be picked up, the charger would unplug and your vehicle would find its way back to you fully charged and ready to go.
Watch the slightly terrifying prototype in action below:
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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That's pretty cool tech that would have lots of applications! I want one that washes dishes.
Tesla people do love their phallic symbolism