In a significant stride toward electric vehicle (EV) charging standardization, Hyundai and Kia have announced their plans to integrate Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) plugs into their EV models in the United States and Canada.
This is a major move toward standardization – which we’re seeing in the smartphone industry with USB-C.
Automakers unite
NACS has emerged as the preferred choice over the Combined Charging System (CCS). By adopting NACS, Hyundai and Kia drivers will gain access to Tesla’s extensive network of Superchargers spanning the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
The same goes for automakers such as Ford, General Motors, Mercedes-Benz, Honda, and Rivian, who have made similar commitments.
In June, VW’s EV charging subsidiary, Electrify America, revealed plans to incorporate the NACS connector into its fast charging networks in the US and Canada by 2025. This decision surprised many, given the substantial investment VW had previously made in building out its CCS-based charging infrastructure. It has committed $2 billion in the settlement following the VW diesel emissions scandal.
EV’s have to charge
Like other charging providers, Electrify America will continue supporting CCS connectors across its network. Additionally, Tesla plans to include CCS connectors at some US charging stations to take advantage of the Biden administration’s IRA subsidies.
Tesla’s Supercharger network presently accounts for approximately 60% of fast chargers in the country, as reported by the energy department.
Most automakers, including Hyundai and Kia, are targeting 2025 to release EV models equipped with NACS ports. Hyundai, however, aims to lead the pack by integrating NACS ports into new EVs in the US, such as the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, and the upcoming Ioniq 7, starting from the fourth quarter of 2024. Canada will see this integration in the first half of 2025. Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury brand, will also adopt the NACS standard.
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Both Hyundai and Kia have committed to providing adapters for customers with vehicles equipped with CCS ports, ensuring a seamless transition to the new charging standard.
Time for a standard
Tesla’s NACS is rapidly becoming the industry norm, bolstered by its extensive network of strategically located Superchargers and its simplified charging process, which many EV drivers find appealing.
To provide a standard framework for NACS, SAE International, formerly known as the Society of Automotive Engineers, announced its intention to develop an industry-standard centered around this technology.
This move addresses concerns of companies reluctant to allow a single competitor to control a pivotal aspect of the EV experience. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, the widespread adoption of NACS marks a significant step toward creating a cohesive and user-friendly charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.
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About the author
Marce has contributed tech to various prominent publications since 2018, offering a transparent perspective into the tech industry and its effects on its users. She now spends her time developing insightful content for industry players. You know, when she's not gaming or geeking out about the latest fad.
