On May 11, 2025, a Tesla Cybertruck demonstrated its innovative PowerShare feature by rescuing a Tesla Model Y with a low battery during a Mother’s Day outing, highlighting the growing utility of vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) charging in the electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem. Shared on X by user Mahkus, the story was reposted by Tesla, showcasing real-world applications of this technology for EV owners.

PowerShare: A Game-Changer for EV Owners

The incident occurred when Mahkus and friends embarked on a hike, leaving their Tesla Model Y at a trailhead with insufficient charge to return home. According to the post on X, the Model Y “wasn’t charged enough and we would have needed to stop and supercharge with napping kids.” Fortunately, the group had a Cybertruck equipped with Tesla’s PowerShare feature, which allows the vehicle to supply energy to other EVs or even power homes. “No worries here! The Cybertruck charged the Y with PowerShare while we hiked and we both got home with 10% battery!” Mahkus shared.

PowerShare, introduced with the Cybertruck in late 2023, leverages the truck’s massive 123 kWh battery pack to deliver up to 11.5 kW of power through its onboard outlets or bidirectional charging system. In this case, the Cybertruck acted as a mobile charging station, transferring energy to the Model Y via a charging cable, as seen in the accompanying photo where the vehicles are connected in a parking lot surrounded by scenic greenery.

Technical Breakdown of PowerShare Capabilities

The Cybertruck’s PowerShare feature is part of Tesla’s broader push into bidirectional charging, a technology that allows EVs to both draw and supply energy. The Cybertruck can deliver power through its 240-volt outlet in the bed, capable of supporting up to 9.6 kW for external devices, or via V2V charging to another Tesla vehicle. This is particularly useful for road trips or remote locations where Supercharger stations—spanning over 2,500 locations in the U.S. as of early 2025—are unavailable.

In practical terms, the Cybertruck’s battery can theoretically provide enough energy to charge a Model Y’s 75 kWh battery from near-empty to full, with capacity to spare. For context, transferring 10% of the Model Y’s battery—approximately 7.5 kWh—would take less than an hour at the Cybertruck’s maximum V2V output, assuming optimal conditions. This capability not only enhances the flexibility of EV ownership but also reduces range anxiety, a common concern for EV drivers in rural or less electrified areas.

Implications for EV Owners and the Industry

The rise of features like PowerShare signals a shift in the EV industry toward greater energy independence and vehicle interoperability. For EV owners, this means more confidence in long-distance travel or outdoor adventures without the fear of being stranded. Economically, it can reduce reliance on public charging infrastructure, potentially saving owners money—Supercharging costs average around $0.38 per kWh in the U.S., meaning a 7.5 kWh charge would cost about $2.85 if done at a station.

From an industry perspective, bidirectional charging could pave the way for vehicle-to-grid (V2G) systems, where EVs contribute to grid stability by supplying power during peak demand. However, regulatory hurdles, such as standardizing V2V and V2G protocols across manufacturers, remain a challenge. Tesla’s early adoption of such features positions it as a leader in this space, potentially pressuring competitors like Ford—with its F-150 Lightning’s similar capabilities—to accelerate their own innovations.

Looking Ahead: The Future of EV Flexibility

The Mother’s Day rescue underscores how Tesla’s PowerShare feature is more than a gimmick—it’s a practical tool for EV owners. As bidirectional charging becomes more widespread, we can expect EVs to play a larger role in energy ecosystems, benefiting both owners and the grid. For now, Tesla drivers like Mahkus can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing their Cybertruck can power not just their adventures, but also their journey home.

Photo courtesy of Mahkus / X