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Ford, GM, and Nissan Embrace Tesla’s NACS Plug Starting in 2025
In 2025, Ford, General Motors, and Nissan will equip their new electric vehicles with Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector. This marks a pivotal moment for the EV industry, moving away from the CCS plug in favor of a more streamlined system.
The shift will provide EV owners with better access to fast chargers and fewer compatibility issues, especially as Tesla’s charging network continues to lead in coverage and reliability across North America.
Alt text: Ford-F 150 lightning EV pickup truck is charging
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Tesla’s Supercharger Network Leads the EV Charging Race
Tesla Superchargers are widely considered the gold standard in EV fast charging. With over 12,000 stations across North America, the network offers unmatched speed, reliability, and availability. Until recently, it was only accessible to Tesla owners.
Now, with automakers adopting the NACS plug, drivers of other EV brands will also benefit. Expanded access to Tesla’s Superchargers could be a game-changer for long road trips and routine charging needs, easing one of EV adoption’s main pain points.
Alt text: Tesla superchargers to recharge battery of cars
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Ford Took the Lead in Adopting Tesla’s Charging Connector
In May 2023, Ford became the first major U.S. automaker to announce support for Tesla’s NACS plug. The company later released adapters for its current EVs, such as the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning, allowing them to connect to Tesla Superchargers.
Starting in 2025, new Ford EVs will include the NACS port as standard equipment. Ford’s early commitment highlights its focus on improving the EV experience through better charging options and broader infrastructure access.
Alt text: Two distinct Ford F-150 trucks
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GM Quickly Followed Ford’s Lead on Charging Compatibility
After Ford’s announcement, General Motors confirmed its plan to switch to Tesla’s NACS connector for all new EVs starting in 2025. In the meantime, GM began offering adapters in 2024 for existing EVs like the Chevy Bolt and Cadillac Lyriq.
This shift allows GM customers to tap into the massive Tesla Supercharger network. By aligning with NACS, GM aims to simplify public charging and make EV ownership more accessible and appealing to mainstream consumers.
Alt text: General Motors building headquarters
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Nissan Becomes the First Japanese Automaker to Join NACS
Nissan made headlines by becoming the first Japanese carmaker to adopt the NACS charging standard. Starting in 2025, new Nissan EVs in the U.S., including the popular Ariya SUV, will come equipped with Tesla’s plug.
The company also plans to offer adapters for current models. Nissan’s move underscores the growing international support for Tesla’s system and reflects a broader effort to unify EV charging across brands, which could accelerate electric vehicle adoption worldwide.
Alt text: White Nissan Leaf at a show
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What Is NACS and Why It’s Becoming the New EV Standard
The North American Charging Standard (NACS) is a compact, high-speed charging connector developed by Tesla. Compared to the older Combined Charging System (CCS), NACS is easier to use and supports faster charging speeds. Its smaller size and growing industry support make it a strong candidate for becoming the universal EV charging plug in the U.S.
As more automakers adopt NACS, drivers can expect greater compatibility, reduced confusion, and a smoother overall charging experience.
Alt text: Close up of man attaching charging cable to an EV
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Supercharger Access Brings Thousands of New Charging Locations
With Ford, GM, and Nissan adopting Tesla’s charging port, their EVs will now gain access to thousands of Supercharger locations across the U.S. and Canada.
This expanded access significantly improves convenience, particularly on road trips and rural or underserved areas. For many drivers, this means less range anxiety and more confidence in switching to an electric vehicle. Access to a well-established network is a huge step forward for mainstream EV usability and adoption.
Alt text: Tesla supercharger charging station
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Adapters Help Bridge the Gap Until 2025 EVs Arrive
Although EVs with built-in NACS ports won’t be available until 2025, automakers are already providing adapters so existing owners can access Tesla’s Superchargers. Ford and GM began releasing official adapters in 2024, with Nissan set to follow by the end of the year.
These adapters are a temporary but crucial solution, enabling current EV drivers to benefit from improved infrastructure without waiting for a new vehicle. It’s a smart way to ease the transition.
Alt text: Charging electric vehicles
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CCS Isn’t Disappearing Just Yet
While NACS is gaining momentum, the CCS (Combined Charging System) plug will continue for years. Many current EVs rely on it, and public charging networks like Electrify America and EVgo will continue to support CCS.
Automakers plan to maintain compatibility during the transition. That means EV drivers with older models won’t be left behind, and new EVs may offer support for both plug types to ensure maximum flexibility and access during this shift.
Alt text: Charging gun plugged inn Hyundai
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EV Charging Is Becoming as Simple as Fueling Up
With more brands adopting Tesla’s plug and expanding access to its Superchargers, charging an EV is starting to feel like filling up a gas tank. Fewer apps, fewer broken stations, and fewer plug types make for a more seamless experience.
This improvement in infrastructure and usability helps make EVs more practical for everyday drivers. As the U.S. moves toward a unified charging system, the EV ownership experience becomes more straightforward and less frustrating.
Alt text: Cropped view of gas station pump handles.
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Seamless Payment Through Ford, GM, and Nissan Apps
Ford, GM, and Nissan are integrating Tesla Supercharger payments into their mobile apps to make charging even easier. Drivers can find stations, begin charging, and pay without needing to use Tesla’s app.
This unified payment approach adds convenience and removes friction from the charging experience. It also represents a shift toward making public EV charging as accessible and user-friendly as gas stations, helping accelerate the mass adoption of electric vehicles.
Alt text: Man holding money, sale, paid, pay, fees
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Road Trips in EVs Are Now Easier Than Ever
One of the biggest challenges for EV owners has been long-distance travel due to limited charging infrastructure. With Tesla’s Supercharger network opening up to more brands, road-tripping in an EV is becoming more practical and enjoyable.
High-speed chargers are increasingly available along major highways and in remote areas. This move reduces range anxiety and encourages more people to consider an EV for commuting, vacations, and extended travel.
Alt text: Happy couple enjoying car drive
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Automakers Continue to Support CCS Charging
Even as Ford, GM, and Nissan transition to NACS, they’re not abandoning CCS charging support. Many existing EV models will remain compatible with non-Tesla networks like EVgo, ChargePoint, and Electrify America. Many future EVs may include dual-port functionality or support both systems via adapters.
This dual approach ensures drivers have options during the transition period and helps maintain confidence in public charging infrastructure regardless of which plug is used.
Alt text: Chargepoint electric charging station
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The EV Industry Is Moving Toward a Single Charging Standard
As more automakers adopt NACS, and with official backing from the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), the U.S. is moving toward a unified EV charging standard. Standardization helps reduce confusion, eliminates the need for multiple plug types, and encourages the expansion of a more consistent charging infrastructure.
For consumers, this means fewer compatibility issues and a smoother experience. For the industry, it’s a significant step toward supporting broader and faster EV adoption nationwide.
Alt text: United States capitol building with waving American flag in Washington
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Nissan’s Adoption Shows Global Momentum Behind Tesla’s Plug
Nissan’s decision to switch to NACS reflects more than just a regional trend; it signals growing global momentum toward Tesla’s plug becoming the default standard. As international automakers recognize the benefits of NACS, this move could influence charging infrastructure in North America and globally.
If adopted widely, it would help create a more cohesive EV ecosystem, making it easier for travelers and accelerating global infrastructure development for electric vehicles.
Alt text: Nissan motors automobile dealership sign.
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Tesla’s Plug Could Accelerate U.S. EV Adoption
One of the biggest hurdles to EV adoption is charging access. With Ford, GM, and Nissan adopting Tesla’s plug, EV charging becomes easier, faster, and more reliable. This move removes one of the main concerns for buyers considering the switch to electric.
By standardizing plugs and expanding access to Superchargers, automakers are simplifying the EV experience, making it more appealing to the average driver and potentially accelerating the shift to cleaner transportation across the U.S.
Alt text: Tesla model 3 at display