Tesla Introduces Door Handle Charge Cable Unlock Feature in 2025.20 Update

JUN 10,2025,By lan

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1. Introduction

   In the 2025.20 software update, Tesla has rolled out a new feature called "Unlatching Charge Cable" for select models. 

   When the vehicle is unlocked or a valid key (such as a paired phone) is nearby, users can simply pull and hold the rear left door handle for 3 seconds. 

   This action will stop charging and release the locked charge cable or adapter. This provides a more convenient alternative for third-party charging devices that lack a physical unlock button.

2. Addressing Third-Party Charging Challenges

   This feature is designed to improve the experience for users of non-Tesla charging equipment, especially when adapters are required. For a long time, owners relying on third-party charging facilities have faced cumbersome operations, mainly in two scenarios:

A. J1772 Adapter Users (North America):

  • Using the common J1772 to Tesla (NACS) adapter often requires a two-handed process.
  • Users must press the J1772 handle's unlock button, wait for the car to stop charging and unlock the port, then quickly release the button so the handle latch grabs the adapter again.
  • Many users worry about accidentally leaving the adapter in the car, leading to the habit of pulling the adapter itself, which is not ideal.

B. Type 2 Connector Users (Europe):

  • Most non-Tesla AC charging stations with Type 2 (CCS Combo 2) connectors lack a physical unlock button.
  • After charging, users must use the car's touchscreen or mobile app to manually stop charging and unlock the port before removing the cable.
  • This extra step is widely seen as a major inconvenience when using third-party chargers.

3. Key Benefits of the New Feature

   The new feature bridges the gap between Tesla's original charging equipment and third-party devices in terms of user experience:

  • Addresses Third-Party Shortcomings: Tesla's original wall and Supercharger handles have an unlock button for convenience. Most third-party chargers, especially Type 2 and some future NACS chargers, do not. The door handle unlock solution offers a native, hardware-free alternative.
  • Simplifies the Process: Compared to using a mobile app (which may suffer from network delays) or entering the car to use the screen, the door handle method is more direct and physical. It is especially useful when your phone is not handy or you prefer not to use electronic devices.
  • Safety-Oriented Design: Some users worry that pulling the handle for 3 seconds might accidentally open the door. However, real-world feedback shows the feature requires the handle to be pulled to a half-open position and held, not fully opening the door. The 3-second hold is designed to prevent accidental activation, ensuring intentional use.

4. Regional Adaptation and Future Expectations

    This update also reflects Tesla's attention to differences in charging infrastructure across markets:

  • Current Deployment: In version 2025.20, this feature is mainly available for Model 3 and Model Y in **Europe**. North America is not included in this version, likely due to the prevalence of buttonless Type 2 connectors in Europe.
  • User Expectations: Some users hope for future expansions, such as:
  1. Extending this quick action to unlock the front trunk.
  2. Integrating with Apple Watch and other smart wearables for quick port unlocking.
  3. Automatically unlocking the port after charging for a "seamless unplug" experience. However, some point out that the locking mechanism is important for security, and full automation may reduce protection against cable theft or tampering.

5. Response to Third-Party Ecosystem

   This update is also seen as Tesla's recognition and integration of user-driven innovations (like third-party accessories). 

   Previously, some users installed devices such as S3XY Commander to achieve similar door handle unlock operations. Native support from Tesla reduces the need for extra hardware.
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