In an effort to provide Volvo electric vehicle (EV) owners in the US, Canada, and Mexico with convenient and accessible charging options, Volvo has confirmed that its upcoming EV models will adopt Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) port. This announcement comes after Volvo joins the ranks of American automakers such as Ford, GM, and Rivian, which have also embraced Tesla’s charging technology. The decision to adopt Tesla’s port makes Volvo the first European marque to do so.
Volvo’s move to integrate Tesla’s Supercharger stations into its charging network is motivated by the company’s aim to offer its drivers an easy and convenient charging experience. By incorporating Tesla’s NACS port, Volvo EV owners will gain access to an additional 12,000 fast-charging locations, significantly expanding their charging options. To facilitate the process, Volvo will provide an adapter for current and recently announced models, such as the C40 Recharge, EX30, and EX90, allowing them to connect to Supercharger stations starting in the first half of 2024. From 2025 onwards, Volvo EVs will come equipped with built-in NACS ports. Additionally, an adapter will be available to connect future Volvo EVs that utilize the Combined Charging System (CCS) format.
To enhance user experience and streamline the charging process, Volvo will integrate the functionality of finding and paying for charging stations into its Volvo Cars app. This integration will provide Volvo owners with a seamless experience when locating and utilizing Supercharger stations.
The decision to adopt Tesla’s charging technology reinforces the growing support of NACS beyond just automakers. Tesla opened up its NACS technology to the wider market in late 2022, with the hope that charging networks such as Chargepoint and Electrify America would embrace the system. While this support has yet to fully materialize, Tesla’s NACS is gaining momentum and broader industry acceptance. For instance, the state of Texas has mandated the use of Tesla’s connector on state-funded charging stations. Furthermore, automotive standards organization SAE International is working on the development of a standardized version of Tesla’s plug.
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However, not all car manufacturers are immediately embracing Tesla’s charging technology. Stellantis, the parent company of well-known brands like Chrysler, Alfa Romeo, and Fiat, has stated that it is currently evaluating the adoption of NACS. Similarly, Hyundai is also considering joining Tesla’s charging standard alliance. The hesitancy from some companies stems from the fact that manufacturers like Hyundai and Porsche have developed 800-volt architectures that support faster charging than the existing Superchargers. These companies would need to negotiate with Tesla for upgraded technology or accept potentially suboptimal charging rates.
Despite some reluctance, the mounting pressure to adopt Tesla’s charging format is undeniable. Companies like Volvo and other automakers see the value in embracing a widely accepted and established charging network to provide their customers with a seamless and comprehensive charging experience. As the EV market continues to grow and evolve, collaboration among automakers becomes essential to ensure the widespread adoption and success of electric mobility.
