Tesla continues to inch closer to its wishes of becoming a world standard when it comes to the plug types used by EV manufacturers. And why not? It’s smaller, more efficient, and there are too many different plug types out there right now. Imagine if the outlets on the walls of homes differed between homes based on the builder that built them. It’s bad enough that we have had to adapt to so many types on the other end of that cable (USB variations, Lightning, barrel connectors, and random proprietary options).
Now Rivian has joined the list of companies willing to adopt Tesla’s plug as a standard. Adding to a growing list that already includes Ford and GM. As well as third-party charging companies like ChargePoint that seek to include it in addition to their current plug (CCS). A list that will likely continue to expand thanks to how large the company’s network of Superchargers is.
Eventually, it will be as easy as visiting any charging location or gas/EV station (since more gas stations like 7-Eleven are jumping on the bandwagon finally). It wouldn’t matter what make or model of EV you have. Once we find a proper standard everyone can agree on, at least.
Tesla had already renamed its connector to the North American Charging Standard (NACS), despite it not being recognized as a standard officially (yet). It just shows that with the right play on words, you can help persuade the world a little further than you already have. Kind of like calling its more advanced driving assist feature “Full Self Driving” (even know it isn’t completely fully self-driving, yet). Regardless, it’s hard to argue that the plug absolutely has what it takes to be a standard and other companies are starting to take notice of this.
Tesla has become one of the most established charging solutions out there and consumers with non-Tesla vehicles have been crying out to gain access to these Supercharger locations. Resulting in Tesla agreeing to eventually open them up to everyone once adapters make their way around. But why even both with adapters if everything fits natively?
As for Rivian, it will begin including the Tesla NACS charging port on its R1T (truck) and R1S (SUV). Although it won’t happen until 2025. In the meantime, current Rivian owners will have to rely on the adapter when it comes to using Tesla’s chargers. An adapter that won’t even see the light of day until next year. It’s coming though.
Every company that agrees to accept Tesla’s plug as a standard (or at least an added option) is a win for Tesla and its customers. As well as any other company on the list. Massively increasing the number of locations that someone can charge.
