Ford and GM Embrace Tesla's EV Charging Standard
Tesla, a major player in the electric vehicle (EV) market, is leveraging its dominant position to establish EV charging standards for the automotive industry's key players. With Tesla's North American Charging Standard (NACS) now accounting for approximately 75% of charging stations in the US, it will dictate the type of chargers adopted by all manufacturers for years to come.
The Transition to NACS
The adoption of the NACS gained traction over the course of two months. In May 2023, Ford announced its decision to embrace the NACS, followed by General Motors a month later. Together, these three manufacturers command a significant 72% share of the US EV market.
Impact on EV Infrastructure
In essence, the move towards the NACS doesn't bring about significant changes. Tesla already boasts a larger number of NACS charging stations installed across the US, with approximately 12,000 stations, surpassing those of the alternative Combined Charging System (CCS) used by other manufacturers.
EV owners have been navigating between different charging systems to make the most of the limited EV charging infrastructure in the US. Tesla includes a CCS adapter with all its vehicles, enabling owners to utilize CCS stations commonly found at grocery stores and parking garages. However, it's worth noting that CCS stations generally operate at Level 2 AC charging speeds, which are slower than Tesla's own charging technology.
Implications for Bidirectional Charging
Widespread EV adoption brings the potential for EVs to serve as energy storage tools, supporting an electrified grid. While NACS chargers have bidirectional operability capabilities, Tesla has not prioritized this feature. This could potentially impede progress in the US towards a more efficient utility grid powered by renewable energy.
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Financial Considerations
As manufacturers transition towards the NACS, the government has established minimum funding standards. The Biden administration has allocated $7.5 billion to expand EV charging infrastructure, but the Department of Energy requires a portion of charging projects to include CCS. Although this regulation remains unchanged for now, there is little doubt that the combined influence of the industry's most influential EV manufacturers will shape future policies.
Shifting Standards
For many Americans, the rapidly changing standards and technology present more reasons to wait on buying an EV, not an incentive to make the switch. Current Ford and GM EV owners will need to use adapters to tap into the growing NACS network, and it likely feels a bit like a bait-and-switch. For now, it may be best to keep your current car on the road with the help of Garfield Auto. Schedule your appointment today!