Toyota, recognized as the world’s largest automaker in terms of sales, announced its plans to adopt Tesla’s electric-vehicle charging technology for North America, starting in 2025. This decision aligns with the ongoing trend of automakers embracing Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) for electric vehicles, which may ultimately position it as the industry standard, challenging the competitor Combined Charging System (CCS).
Notably, Toyota is not alone in this endeavor. Other prominent automakers like Ford Motor, General Motors, and Nissan have already embraced NACS, thereby bringing Tesla’s superchargers closer to becoming the standard for electric vehicle charging infrastructure across North America. The adoption of this technology represents a strategic move to bolster the charging infrastructure, promoting the wider adoption of electric vehicles.
Under the agreement, Toyota is set to incorporate NACS charging ports into specific Toyota and Lexus battery-electric vehicles (BEVs). These forthcoming models will feature the technology, notably including a new Toyota SUV slated for production at the company’s Kentucky manufacturing plant. This shift underscores Toyota’s commitment to advancing its electric vehicle lineup and ensuring compatibility with the NACS infrastructure.
Furthermore, for existing owners of Toyota and Lexus vehicles equipped with the CCS system, a pragmatic solution is on the horizon. Beginning in 2025, they will be offered access to an adapter that facilitates NACS charging. This adapter will ease the transition for current owners, ensuring they can effectively use the Tesla-based charging infrastructure.
Tesla’s NACS technology has gained substantial traction in the United States, with the U.S. Department of Energy reporting that approximately 60% of fast chargers in the country are built to the NACS standard. This prevalence underscores the growing influence and reach of Tesla’s charging network, further motivating automakers to align with this standard.
Nevertheless, it’s important to note that Tesla’s NACS is not the only contender in the electric vehicle charging ecosystem. The rival Combined Charging System (CCS) is backed by notable automakers such as Volkswagen. However, even established players like Volkswagen have engaged in discussions with Tesla about adopting the NACS, recognizing its growing prominence within the industry.
