In an unsurprising announcement, Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, and Scout Motors (a revived VW-owned EV brand for America) have revealed decision to switch to the North American Charging Standard (NACS) for their future electric vehicles in the region, starting from the year 2025. This strategic move comes after similar announcements from Polestar, Volvo, Honda, Acura, Ford and GM.
The Power of NACS and Tesla Supercharger Network Integration
The highlight of this joint effort is the potential integration of the NACS into existing vehicles equipped with a Combined Charging System (CCS) port. This integration will empower customers to access the Tesla Supercharger network, significantly expanding their charging provider options. With more than 15,000 Superchargers potentially becoming available to customers, this collaboration aims to provide a seamless and efficient charging experience.
Adapter Solutions for Existing Vehicles
Acknowledging the importance of current customers, the brands are actively exploring adapter solutions to enable existing vehicles with CCS charging ports to connect to the Tesla Supercharger network. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the transition to the NACS is not only future-oriented but also inclusive of the existing EV community.
Electrify America’s Commitment to NACS
Electrify America, a key player in the charging infrastructure, has already pledged to incorporate the NACS connector at charging stations by 2025. This commitment underscores the industry-wide collaboration towards embracing open standards and interoperability, setting the stage for a more cohesive and user-friendly EV charging experience.
Volkswagen Group’s Commitment to Open Standards
Volkswagen Group emphasizes its unwavering commitment to improving the charging experience through open standards and interoperability. The move towards the NACS aligns with the broader industry goal of creating a standardized charging infrastructure that benefits all EV drivers.
Industry-wide Support for NACS
Rebecca Tinucci, Senior Director of Charging at Tesla, expressed enthusiasm about the widespread support for the NACS. She stated, “Almost every major automotive manufacturer is onboard, rallying behind a shared vision of improving charging experiences for all EV drivers.” This collaborative spirit sets the stage for an industry-wide effort to accelerate the transition to sustainable energy.
