The Game-Changing Moment That Shook the EV World

Picture this: May 2023. Ford drops a bombshell. They’ve just inked a deal to give their EV owners access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. Boom. The dominoes start falling. GM, Hyundai, Rivian, Mercedes—everyone jumps on board. By the end of 2023, nearly every major automaker had pledged allegiance to Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS). But here’s the kicker: while the promises were big, the adapters? Not so much. Many non-Tesla EV owners are still waiting. But don’t lose hope—recent announcements are sparking optimism. Let’s break it down.

Why Tesla’s Supercharger Network is the Gold Standard

In November 2022, Tesla opened up its EV charging connector design, inviting automakers and network operators to adopt it. At the time, everyone else was using the Combined Charging Standard (CCS). Tesla’s network was already legendary—robust, user-friendly, and seamless to pay for. But mass adoption? It seemed like a long shot. Fast forward six months, and Ford becomes the first to take the plunge, giving its customers access to over 12,000 Superchargers across the U.S. and Canada. But Ford didn’t stop there—they committed to integrating NACS ports into their future EVs, ditching CCS altogether.

The NACS Takeover: Who’s In and Who’s Still Waiting

Today, there are 36,499 NACS ports available publicly in the U.S., compared to just 16,925 CCS ports. That’s despite federal funding aimed at boosting CCS infrastructure. For EV owners stuck with CCS, adapters are the lifeline. But here’s the catch: Tesla’s website explicitly prohibits third-party adapters, and GM warns that using non-approved adapters could void your warranty. So, what’s the deal?

• Ford: Officially gained access in February 2024, but adapter delays persist. Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning owners can order adapters through the Ford Pass app—but hurry, the deadline is September 30, 2025.
• GM: Updated software for Chevy, Cadillac, and GMC EVs in September 2024. Adapters cost $225, and shipping times are unclear. From 2025 onward, GM EVs will come with NACS ports built-in.
• Kia: Starting January 15, 2025, Kia EV owners get access to NACS chargers. Buy a 2024 EV6 or 2025 EV9 SUV by September 4, 2024, and you’ll snag a free adapter. Existing owners? You’ll have to buy one later.
• Hyundai: Free adapters for EVs bought or leased before January 31, 2025. The 2026 Ioniq 9 and Genesis Electrified GV70 will come with NACS ports.
• Lucid: Gravity SUV owners get access on January 31, 2025. Lucid Air sedan owners? You’ll need an adapter, available in Q2 2025.
• Mercedes-Benz: Access starts February 2025. Existing customers can buy a $185 adapter through dealerships. Factory-installed NACS ports are coming later this year.
• Nissan: Ariya drivers get access via adapters in late 2024. NACS ports will be standard in 2025 models.
• Rivian: Officially joined the club on March 18, 2024. Adapters are shipping, and new vehicle owners get one automatically.
• Volvo & Polestar: Free adapters for 2025 EX90, EX40, and EC40 buyers. Existing owners? $230 at dealerships. Adapters ship mid-November 2024.

The Adapter Dilemma: What You Need to Know

Adapters are the bridge to the Tesla Supercharger network, but they’re not all created equal. Tesla has ramped up production, and GM claims their adapters are specifically designed to protect EV batteries. But third-party options? Proceed with caution. Tesla’s website warns against them, and GM’s warranty won’t cover damage from non-approved adapters. Bottom line: stick with manufacturer-approved options.

“Our adapters are designed to protect GM EV batteries while charging. Using non-approved adapters could void your warranty.”

— GM Spokesperson

The Future of EV Charging: NACS is the New Normal

From 2025 onward, NACS is the standard. Tesla’s Supercharger network is the backbone of the EV revolution, and automakers are racing to get their customers plugged in. Whether you’re waiting for an adapter or eyeing a new EV with a built-in NACS port, one thing’s clear: the future of charging is here, and it’s powered by Tesla.

Stay tuned. As more automakers gain access, we’ll keep this list updated. The EV charging game is evolving fast—don’t get left behind.