Stellantis recently announced its decision to finally use Tesla’s EV ports for all its electric vehicles beginning in 2025, the last major automaker to do so. This establishes NACS as an industry standard for EV charging in North America.
Known as Fiat Chrysler Automobiles until its 2021 rebranding, Stellantis encompasses a range of iconic American and European car brands, including Chrysler, Dodge SRT, Jeep, Ram Trucks, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, and Maserati. The company’s move to adopt the North American Charging System (NACS) is linked to its collaboration in a significant joint venture.
This involves seven automakers working together to establish a mega network of EV charging stations. The NACS charging plug, also known as the SAE J3400, has been rapidly gaining acceptance among automakers, owing to its compatibility with fast-charging stations and its user-friendly design.
The network, supporting the NACS plug, aims to build 30,000 charge points by 2030. This expansion is expected to significantly improve EV charging accessibility and convenience across North America.
Image Source: Jeep Canada
When Will It Take Effect?
Starting from 2025, Stellantis will provide adapters for its EVs currently equipped with the Combined Charging Standard (CCS) ports. This ensures compatibility with NACS-equipped charging stations, aiding a smooth transition for EV owners.
Following this, select 2026 model year vehicles, anticipated to roll out in late 2025, will feature native NACS support and hardware. This forward-looking approach underlines Stellantis’s commitment to evolving EV technology and infrastructure.
The decision by the company to adopt Tesla’s EV charging system not only elevates the latter’s charging technology to the status of an industry standard but also signals a cooperative approach among automakers in addressing the challenges associated with EV charging.
EV companies can eliminate the confusion and inconvenience caused by incompatible charging systems by converging on a single charging standard. Thus, promoting wider adoption of electric vehicles.
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