Model S

Make
Tesla
Segment
Sedan

Hurricane Florence is now wreaking devastation in North and South Carolina at this very moment. Around 25 million people are affected. The governors for both states issue mandatory evacuation orders for some residents, specifically those who live dangerously close to the coastline. Other residents are rightly abiding by the states' recommendation to evacuate and head inland. Not only are some gas stations running low on fuel, but what about those with all-electric cars, such as Teslas?

Have no fear, as the California-based automaker has announced it will provide additional support for its customers in the Carolinas by way of free Supercharger access and temporary battery capacity unlocks for base trims of the Model S and Model X.

Owners of Tesla Model S and Model X 60 will see their vehicle's battery capacity jacked up to the maximum capacity of 75 kWh beginning immediately. At that time the batteries will return to their original capacity.

"We are temporarily enabling your car to access additional battery capacity, as well as free Supercharging, in preparation for Hurricane Florence," according to the notification sent to affected owners. "We hope that this gives you the peace of mind to get to a safe location, and will notify you before returning your car to its original configuration in mid-October. Badging on your display may adjust during this period. Safe travels!"

Under normal circumstances, it would cost $2,500 to unlock a Model S or Model X with the 60 kWh battery and to have no-cost access to the Supercharger network.

This isn't the first time Tesla has done a goodwill gesture completely free of charge. Back in 2017 when Hurricane Irma tore through Florida, Tesla owners who also had the lower battery capacity vehicles were given free upgrades. Tesla also provided a helping hand, specifically Powerwall battery systems, to Puerto Rico following the destruction Irma did to the island's electrical grid.