EV Charging Revolution: Automakers Adopt Tesla's Supercharger Network
In a landmark move back in May 2023, Ford Motor Company initiated a significant change in the electric vehicle (EV) landscape by granting its EV owners access to Tesla's expansive Supercharger network. This decision has had a domino effect, with major automakers like GM, Hyundai, Rivian, and Mercedes-Benz quickly following suit. By the close of 2023, the vast majority of prominent automakers had committed to adopting Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) and pledged to provide EV owners with the necessary adapters.
While many non-Tesla customers are still patiently waiting, recent announcements from various automakers offer a glimmer of hope. Let's take a closer look at which brands have already gained access to the Tesla Supercharging Network and what the future holds.
The Rise of NACS
Tesla initially shared its EV charging connector design in November 2022, aiming to encourage network operators and automakers to adopt the technology, thereby establishing it as the new standard in North America. At the time, every other automaker in North America was utilizing the Combined Charging Standard (CCS). Despite Tesla's charging network being widely regarded as superior due to its robust, user-friendly design and seamless payment system, widespread adoption seemed unlikely.
Fast forward six months, and Ford's groundbreaking announcement paved the way for collaboration with Tesla, providing Ford customers with access to over 12,000 Superchargers across the U.S. and Canada. However, it wasn't just about adapters; Ford also committed to integrating NACS ports into its future EVs, signaling a departure from CCS. This move was subsequently mirrored by Rivian, GM, BMW, Honda, Volkswagen, Porsche, Audi, Hyundai, Kia, Lucid, and Stellantis.
Currently, in the U.S., there are 36,499 publicly available NACS ports, dwarfing the approximately 16,925 CCS ports. This disparity exists despite federal funding being explicitly allocated to the development of CCS chargers.
For EV owners still reliant on CCS ports, the wait continues for manufacturer-approved adapters. While third-party adapters exist, Tesla explicitly prohibits their use, citing safety and performance concerns. GM has also cautioned against using non-GM approved adapters, stating that their vehicle warranty does not cover damage resulting from their use.
Adapter Rollouts and Future Plans
Tesla has ramped up adapter production, and GM has updated its EV software to enable Supercharger compatibility. Certain Ford customers gained access to Tesla Superchargers in February 2024, though adapter deliveries have faced delays. GM began providing software updates in September 2024, requiring customers to purchase a GM-approved adapter for $225. Starting in 2025, GM EVs will feature built-in NACS ports.
Honda is set to provide NACS access to owners of the Honda Prologue and Acura ZDX EVs in June, with adapters available for purchase. Acura RSX will be the first EV built with a NACS charge port, followed by the Honda 0 series models.
Hyundai's Kia brand plans to offer NACS access starting January 15, 2025, providing free adapters to select new EV buyers. The 2025 Kia EV6 and 2026 EV9 GT will be manufactured with NACS plugs. Hyundai will provide customers who bought or leased an EV before January 31, 2025 a free NACS adapter. Hyundai owners will receive instructions on how to redeem their adapters the week of April 7.
Lucid Gravity SUV owners gained Supercharger access on January 31, 2025, with the Gravity featuring a standard NACS port. Lucid Air sedan owners will receive adapters in the second quarter.
Mercedes-Benz began enabling Tesla network access in February 2025, offering Lectron adapters for purchase. NACS-equipped Mercedes EVs are expected later this year, with integrated Plug & Charge functionality.
Nissan Ariya drivers gained access to Tesla's network via adapters in late 2024, with NACS ports planned for 2025 models.
Rivian officially gained access to 15,000 Superchargers in March 2024 and has been shipping adapters to customers. All customers should receive one at no cost by the end of January 2025.
Volvo and Polestar began offering Supercharger access in October 2024. Volvo includes a free NACS adapter with select 2025 models, while existing owners can purchase one. Both brands are updating their infotainment software to include Tesla Supercharger locations.
This article was last updated March 25, 2025. TechCrunch will continue to update this list as automakers gain official access.
Source: TechCrunch