Don't use a regular extension cord for your EV.

Generally, no. And if you absolutely have to, you need the right cord.

Standard extension cords aren’t built for the continuous high load an EV pulls for hours. They overheat, cause voltage drops (which slows charging and wastes energy), and can start fires. The cord gauge, length, and rating matter a lot — most people grab whatever 16-gauge they have in the garage, which is dangerous.

If you must use one, get a short (10 feet max), heavy-duty cord rated for at least 15 amps continuous — 12-gauge is the bare minimum, 10-gauge is safer. Make sure it’s outdoor-rated (marked W or SJTW) and has a three-prong grounded plug. Even then, keep an eye on it for heat and never coil it while in use (coils trap heat). But really, the best move is to install a proper Level 2 charger or at least use a dedicated outlet. This is not where you pinch pennies.