Electric vehicle charging network EVgo has updated its terms of service to explicitly prohibit the use of high-speed DC extension cables and breakaway adapters at its charging stations, effective March 8th. The move is aimed at mitigating the risk of overheating, which can compromise safety and potentially cause damage to vehicles and charging infrastructure.

The updated terms, which were announced on Thursday, specify that EVgo authorizes only automaker-manufactured charging adapters with UL2252 certification. This means that third-party accessories, including break-away adapters and DC extension cords, are no longer permitted for use at EVgo's charging stations. The company's decision is likely to impact enterprising companies that have been developing and marketing EV charging accessories, including extension cables and breakaway adapters.

Tesla, another major player in the EV charging space, has similar restrictions in place. Its Terms of Use for Superchargers prohibit the use of any adapter not sold or provided by Tesla or other automakers. This move by EVgo is seen as another hurdle for companies looking to capitalize on the growing demand for EV charging accessories.

One such company, A2Z EV, had recently put up for preorder its $248 6ft-plus DC extension cord, which allows EV owners to charge their non-Tesla vehicles at Tesla Superchargers using supported NACS adapters without blocking multiple charging stalls. Early testing by YouTube channel State of Charge showed the extension cable working without overheating. However, the ban by EVgo and Tesla may limit the adoption of such accessories.

Another company, EVject, had developed a breakaway adapter designed to enable drivers to quickly disconnect from a Tesla Supercharger or other charging station in emergency situations. Although Tesla initially sued EVject over safety concerns, the automaker eventually dropped the case. EVject maintains that its product is safe, but the ban by EVgo and Tesla may still impact its sales.

The decision by EVgo and Tesla to prohibit these accessories raises concerns about the safety of third-party charging solutions. If other charging networks follow suit, it could become increasingly difficult for companies like A2Z EV and EVject to sell their products. The move also highlights the need for standardized safety protocols and certification for EV charging accessories to ensure a safe and seamless charging experience for EV owners.

As the EV market continues to grow, the importance of safe and reliable charging infrastructure cannot be overstated. The ban on fast-charging extension cables and breakaway adapters by EVgo and Tesla serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to address safety concerns and ensure a seamless transition to electric vehicles.