Tesla's NACS Charging Revolution Explained: Who's In And Who's Out So Far
7:33 am ET June 29, 2023 (Benzinga) Print
In recent years, the electric vehicle industry has witnessed a significant shift in charging standards, particularly in North America. Previously, the prevailing standards for AC and DC charging were the SAE J1772 (Type 1) and Combined Charging System (CCS1) connectors, respectively.
However, Elon Musk-led Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA) has developed its proprietary North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector and aims to establish it as a continent-wide charging standard. This transition has sparked interest and led to several companies in various industries evaluating or adopting it. Tesla’s Superchargers constitute about 60% of total available U.S. fast chargers, according to Reuters.
Here’s a quick overview of who’s joined the NACS bandwagon and the ones still on the charging fence:
Automakers On Board:
Tesla: As the creator of the NACS, Tesla has been utilizing this charging standard since 2012 across all its new car models. Tesla announced the opening of its proprietary charging standard and the NACS name on Nov. 11, 2022, signaling its intention to establish NACS as the dominant standard.
Aptera: In January 2023, Aptera Motors became the first EV maker to integrate Tesla’s charging standard, as it said its upcoming solar electric vehicle would feature the NACS connector.
Ford Motor Co (NYSE:F): Ford, one of the largest North American vehicle manufacturers, made headlines in May 2023 by announcing its switch from CCS1 to the NACS charging connector. Starting with their next-generation EV models in 2025, Ford plans to incorporate the NACS connector. Adapters for existing CCS1-compatible models will be made available in 2024.
General Motors (NYSE:GM): Following Ford’s announcement, General Motors also declared its commitment to the NACS charging connector in June 2023. General Motors plans to equip its next-generation EVs, starting from 2025, with the NACS charging inlet. They also intend to provide NACS adapters for their existing CCS1-compatible models.
Rivian Automotive Holdings (NASDAQ:RIVN): Rivian, an emerging electric vehicle manufacturer, announced in June 2023 that it will implement the Tesla charging port on the R1S, R1T, and upcoming R2 platforms starting in 2025.
Volvo Group (OTC:VLVLY): The Swedish automaker intends to adopt the NACS charging inlet for its North American battery electric vehicles (BEVs) from 2025. NACS adapters for existing CCS1-compatible models will be available from H1 2024.
Bullish
AI
