8 September 2023, Mumbai: Tesla’s electric vehicle charging plug is gaining recognition as a potential universal design for the industry. Following earlier reports of Ford and General Motors considering Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS), Honda Motor has now inked an agreement with Tesla to implement this standard for the charging port of its electric vehicle (EV) models set to debut in North America from 2025. This significant move is part of Honda’s commitment to advancing its EV offerings and contributing to the growing electric vehicle ecosystem.
Honda Embraces Tesla’s Charging Standard
In a noteworthy development, Honda has entered into a partnership with Tesla, led by Elon Musk, to adopt Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) for the charging ports of its forthcoming EV models in North America. These new Honda EVs equipped with NACS ports are scheduled for release starting in 2025, with further models to follow suit, embracing this standardized approach.
Compatibility Through Adaptors
Honda’s existing EV models set to launch in North America before 2025 will feature a Combined Charging System (CCS) port. Interestingly, these vehicles are being developed to ensure compatibility with the NACS through the use of a charging adaptor. This adaptability underscores Honda’s commitment to providing convenient charging options for its customers.
Collaborative Charging Infrastructure
In a bid to bolster the electric vehicle charging infrastructure in North America, Honda recently announced its participation in a joint venture alongside seven other automakers. This collaborative effort aims to establish a high-powered charging network, ensuring a reliable and accessible charging infrastructure for EV owners.
A Trend Gaining Momentum
Honda’s decision to join forces with Tesla follows a trend within the automotive industry. Earlier in June, both Ford and General Motors also entered agreements with Tesla to adopt its North American Charging Standard. This demonstrates a growing recognition of Tesla’s charging technology as a reliable and efficient option for the broader EV market.
Expanding the Network: Tesla’s Superchargers
Beyond North America, Tesla has been actively expanding its charging network. European carmaker Volvo, for instance, partnered with Tesla in June to grant access to Tesla’s vast Supercharger network for electric Volvo car drivers in the US, Canada, and Mexico. This move aims to enhance the convenience of charging for Volvo’s electric vehicle users.
Tesla’s Commitment to Open Access
Tesla has demonstrated a commitment to open access to its charging infrastructure. As part of the US administration’s plan to install 500,000 electric vehicle chargers on US roads by 2030, Tesla has pledged to make 7,500 of its charging stations available to non-Tesla vehicles by the end of 2024. This initiative is expected to further bolster the accessibility and viability of electric vehicles across the country.