EV Charging: Adapters, Networks, and the Future
Electric vehicle (EV) charging is evolving, resembling the early smartphone charging wars. The Combined Charging System (CCS, Type 1) connector is common, like USB-C, while Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) is becoming increasingly widespread, similar to Apple’s Lightning.
The NACS port is gaining traction, with many major automakers adopting it. New cars with NACS are expected around 2026.
Europe has standardized on CCS2. In the US, EV drivers using Tesla, Kia, and Nissan vehicles are still dealing with different connectors and station availability, although improvements are on the way.
The federal government is investing $7.5 billion in charging network operators to boost EV infrastructure.
Government actions are also impacting the EV charging landscape.
The GSA is shutting down its EV chargers, citing them as “not mission critical.”
Also, a $5 billion EV charging program was halted, potentially impacting the rollout of new charging stations.
Several automakers are working to make EV charging easier and more accessible for consumers.
Ford is expanding its free home EV charger offer to Canada for certain models purchased or leased between February 1st and March 31st.
Kia’s EVs will gain Tesla Supercharger access, with NACS adapters for EV6 and EV9 owners.
Tesla is also working to improve its Supercharger network.
Tesla Cybertrucks are getting faster charging at V4 Supercharger stalls, which can support up to 500kW charging.
Lucid’s Gravity SUV features a unique motor to help maximize charging.
Other companies are addressing issues with EV charging.
ChargePoint is introducing cut-resistant cables and alarm systems to combat copper theft from charging stations.
Mercedes-Benz EV owners will be able to use Tesla Superchargers, starting with adapters and eventually with native NACS integration.
Hyundai will distribute free NACS adapters to its EV customers, enabling access to many Tesla Supercharger stations.
GM and ChargePoint are collaborating to build a network of fast EV chargers, aiming to deploy up to 500 DC fast-charging ports by the end of 2025.
EVgo received a $1.25 billion loan to expand its fast-charging infrastructure across the US.
Rivian is opening its charging network to other EVs at a new station in Joshua Tree National Park.
Nissan requires an extra step, inserting a plastic piece, for Ariya owners using Tesla Supercharger adapters.
GM and EVgo have reached a milestone, installing their 2,000th public EV charging stall.
A new universal “Plug and Charge” protocol for EV charging is expected to roll out early next year, to simplify the charging process.
Tesla is planning to launch fully realized V4 Supercharger stations with up to 500kW charging and 1.2MW for its Semi trucks.
GM is offering free nighttime charging to Chevy EV owners in Texas through a partnership with Reliant Energy.
Curbside EV charging is coming to Michigan through a partnership between AT&T and Voltpost.
Volvo and Polestar EV owners can now access Tesla Superchargers using adapters.
Scout’s upcoming EVs will natively feature the Tesla charging port.
Tesla is continuing its efforts to develop solar-powered Superchargers.
Ford advised some EV owners to discontinue using their Tesla Supercharger adapter due to a potential issue.
Nissan is launching its own EV charging network, allowing Ariya owners to use various third-party charging stations via the MyNissan app. They will also offer NACS adapters.
Juicebox’s EV charging customers will continue to have connectivity features. The company is working with another to auction off its software management assets.
The EV charging landscape is rapidly changing. As automakers roll out new models and update existing ones, it will become easier for consumers to switch to electric vehicles.
