Tesla owners in and around Chicago are facing a desperate situation as they struggle to charge their vehicles in the midst of freezing temperatures that have engulfed the Midwest.
Charging stations have become graveyards for cars as the mercury plummets into negative double digits, leaving owners stranded.
Tyler Beard, who has been attempting to recharge his Tesla at an Oak Brook supercharging station since Sunday afternoon, expressed his frustration, stating, "Nothing. No juice. Still on zero percent. And this is like three hours being out here after being out here three hours yesterday." Beard is just one of many Tesla owners facing long lines and abandoned cars at charging stations across the Chicago area.
Chalis Mizelle, another Tesla owner, described the situation as a "disaster," recounting how she had to abandon her car and rely on a friend for transportation after her vehicle failed to charge. The scene at the charging stations is reminiscent of a graveyard, with one man remarking, "We got a bunch of dead robots out here."
Kevin Sumrak, who arrived at Chicago O'Hare International Airport on Sunday night, discovered his Tesla completely dead and unable to start. He was left with no choice but to hire a flatbed tow truck to transport his vehicle to a functioning charging station.
Mark Bilek, an expert from the Chicago Auto Trade Association, explained that cold weather can significantly impact the charging capabilities of electric vehicles. He emphasized the need to precondition the battery, ensuring it reaches the optimal temperature for a fast charge.
Login