A seemingly routine task of charging a Tesla turned into a hazardous event in Tijuana, Mexico, when a Model S electric vehicle (EV) caught fire. While no injuries were reported, the incident has raised serious concerns about the safety risks associated with illegal electrical connections.
Illegal Charging Method Sparks Fire
The Tesla owner, seeking to cut costs, bypassed standard public or home charging stations and instead connected the vehicle to a power line using an unauthorized method known locally as a “diablito” or “little devil.” This practice, prevalent in some parts of Mexico, involves tapping into power lines to steal electricity. Although it may seem like a cheap alternative, this method is fraught with risks, including potential fires and electrocution.
The national power company in Mexico faces significant losses—over $2 billion annually—due to these illegal connections. While such practices are common at construction sites, they also find their way into residential areas. The Model S owner’s attempt to save money ended in disaster as the vehicle caught fire soon after being plugged in.
Firefighters Face New Challenge
The Tijuana Fire Department quickly arrived at the scene, where they encountered a Tesla fire for the first time. Arturo Sánchez, a department spokesperson, noted that while local firefighters are trained to handle electric vehicle fires, this particular incident was unusual.
“This is something new for us—dealing with a Tesla on fire,” Sánchez said. Despite the firefighters’ prompt response, the flames had already spread to a neighboring home by the time they arrived. The fire was brought under control, but the house suffered significant damage. Thankfully, the home was empty, and no one was inside the Tesla at the time of the fire.
Assessing the Damage
The full extent of the Tesla’s damage remains uncertain, but the severity of the blaze raises doubts about whether the car can be repaired. The neighboring house was destroyed, and while rebuilding it may be challenging, it might be simpler than repairing or replacing the extensively damaged EV.
Reports suggest that the Tesla belonged to a tourist and that the fire occurred in a low-income neighborhood near the U.S.-Mexico border. The availability of numerous EV charging stations throughout Tijuana makes the decision to use illegal electricity connections all the more puzzling.
Impact on Tesla’s Mexican Expansion Plans
This incident comes at a complex time for Tesla. Just weeks prior to the fire, CEO Elon Musk announced a delay in a planned $10 billion investment in northern Mexico. The investment was intended to build a new EV factory in Nuevo León, but concerns over potential tariffs under a possible second term for former U.S. President Donald Trump have led to the postponement.
While the Tijuana fire is not directly related to Tesla’s investment plans, it underscores the broader challenges and risks of expanding into markets with infrastructure and regulatory issues. The use of illegal power connections, as demonstrated in this case, reflects a larger issue that could affect the safety and viability of EVs in such regions.
Lessons for EV Owners
The Tijuana fire serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to proper charging practices. As electric vehicles gain popularity, it is crucial for both consumers and authorities to ensure that safe and legal charging infrastructure is utilized. Unauthorized methods, like the one used in this incident, can lead to dangerous and costly consequences.
