Unlocking Tesla Superchargers: Access for GM, Ford, Rivian, and Other Leading EV Brands
In May 2023, Ford made a groundbreaking move by partnering with Tesla to allow its electric vehicle (EV) owners to access the expansive Tesla Supercharger network. This pivotal agreement set off a domino effect in the automotive industry, prompting numerous automakers, including GM, Hyundai, Rivian, and Mercedes, to adopt Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS). As we approach the end of 2023, almost every major car manufacturer has committed to this new charging standard, reassuring EV owners that compatible adapters will soon be available.
The Shift to Tesla’s EV Charging Standard
In November 2022, Tesla unveiled its EV charging connector design, aiming to encourage other manufacturers and network operators to embrace this technology. At that time, most automakers were still relying on the Combined Charging Standard (CCS) in North America.
Despite initial skepticism about widespread adoption, Tesla’s charging network was recognized for its superior design and user-friendly payment options. Six months later, Ford became the first major company to partner with Tesla, granting its customers access to over 12,000 Superchargers across the U.S. and Canada. This partnership also included plans for future Ford EVs to feature NACS ports instead of CCS.
Current Automaker Participation in Tesla’s Supercharging Network
Following Ford’s lead, several automakers have announced their commitment to Tesla’s charging standard:
- Rivian
- General Motors (GM)
- BMW
- Honda
- Volkswagen
- Porsche
- Audi
- Hyundai
- Kia
- Lucid
- Stellantis
Tesla Charging FAQs
As of now, the U.S. boasts approximately 36,499 NACS ports available to the public, significantly outnumbering the 16,925 CCS ports. This disparity remains despite federal funding aimed at expanding CCS infrastructure. For EV owners using CCS ports, manufacturer-approved adapters are forthcoming. While third-party options exist, Tesla’s website specifies that these may not be compliant.
A GM representative confirmed that their adapters are specifically engineered to safeguard GM EV batteries during charging, and usage of non-approved adapters could void vehicle warranties.
Upcoming Adapter Availability by Automaker
Here’s a summary of when various automakers plan to roll out adapters for Tesla’s Supercharger network:
Ford
Ford customers gained access to Tesla Superchargers in February 2024, but supply chain issues delayed the distribution of free fast-charging adapters. By early 2025, more customers began receiving their adapters.
General Motors
As of September 2024, GM updated its software for Chevy, Cadillac, and GMC EVs to enable Tesla Supercharger access. Customers can purchase a “GM approved” adapter for $225. From 2025 onward, GM’s EVs will incorporate NACS ports.
Honda and Acura
In March 2025, Honda announced that Prologue and Acura ZDX EV owners would gain NACS access in June. Honda plans to release its first EV with a NACS port, the Acura RSX, in 2026.
Hyundai Motor Group
Hyundai has outlined plans for NACS access in 2025, with Kia offering adapters for new EV purchases. Both the 2025 EV6 and 2026 EV9 GT will come with NACS plugs. Existing Hyundai owners can expect free adapters for select models purchased before January 31, 2025.
Lucid
Lucid Gravity SUV owners gained access to Tesla’s network starting January 31, 2025. Current Lucid Air sedan owners with CCS ports will receive adapters in Q2 2025.
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes announced in January that its EVs would access Tesla’s network by February 2025. Existing customers can buy an adapter for $185, while the first vehicles with factory-installed NACS ports will launch later this year.
Nissan
Nissan began offering access to Tesla’s network for Ariya drivers in late 2024, with plans to introduce EVs with NACS ports in 2025.
Rivian
Rivian officially gained access to 15,000 Superchargers on March 18, 2024, with plans to distribute adapters to customers in April. New Rivian orders will ship with adapters automatically.
Volvo and Polestar
By the end of October 2024, Volvo and Polestar customers were granted access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. Volvo offered free NACS adapters with new EV purchases, while existing owners could buy adapters for $230.
This article will be updated regularly as more automakers gain access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. For more information, visit TechCrunch for live updates on the EV charging landscape.
