Tesla has announced some Superchargers in Japan are free in the aftermath of the massive earthquake that struck on New Year’s day. Superchargers in Niigata, Ishikawa, Toyama, and Fukui prefectures are free for an entire week.
The earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.6, has left communities in the Hokuriku region grappling with the loss of at least 30 lives, numerous injuries, and significant damage to infrastructure. In response to this crisis, Tesla is giving free Supercharger access until at least January 9, providing a crucial window of support during this challenging period.
The official Tesla Japan on X (formerly Twitter) announced the free Supercharger access, emphasizing the importance of ensuring safety before utilizing the charging stations.
“Superchargers located in the Hokuriku area, which were damaged by the Noto Peninsula Earthquake that occurred on January 1st of this year, will be open for free for one week starting tonight. Please ensure the safety of your surroundings before using.”
テスラ スーパーチャージャーを無償化
本年1月1日に発生した能登半島地震によって被害を受けた北陸エリア所在のスーパーチャージャーを今晩より1週間無償開放します。身の回りの安全を十分確保の上ご利用ください。
詳細については以下のとおりです。対象範囲… pic.twitter.com/8zfGhorJei
— Tesla Japan (@teslajapan) January 2, 2024
The significance of Tesla’s move becomes apparent when considering the widespread destruction caused by the earthquake, including building collapses, power outages, and disruptions to transportation systems. However, it should not come as a surprise as this is not the first time Tesla has stepped up after a natural disaster.
Tesla has previously made Superchargers free after hurricanes and tornados in the US, as well as in Israel last year amid the ongoing military conflict. Tesla also opened up free access to Superchargers in China during the coronavirus outbreak in early 2020, helping owners travel easily and quickly away from affected areas.
The compassion is not limited to Tesla however, as another company owned by Elon Musk, SpaceX, have also made their services available to residents after natural disasters, like last year when Maui was ravaged by a wildfire and after flooding in Germany.
SpaceX activates Starlink service for the first time in Asia in Japan
